When your student goes to college, they are excited about the array of organizations they can participate in. Their world is wide open to any number of opportunities – and one of those opportunities may be joining a fraternity or sorority (FSL) and becoming a part of Fraternity and Sorority Life. Fraternity and Sorority Life, is the fraternity and sorority community on the campus.

If you were not in a fraternity or sorority, you might wonder why your student would want to join one – and if you’re familiar with the stereotypes, you might not be sure this would be the best choice.  Here are some questions to help you learn more about Fraternity and Sorority life (FSL).

Jarret Sahr, senior, member of Fraternity & Sorority Life and vice-president of recruitment for the Interfraternity Council, shared this about being a part of the FSL community: “FSL is important to me because of the opportunities it provides whether through leadership experiences, networking events or the chance to grow into a better man. Through my involvement, I’ve built lifelong friendships, learned importance of holding both myself and my brothers accountable, and found a support system that continually pushes me to become the best version of myself every day.”

What are the benefits of joining a fraternity of sorority? Fraternity and Sorority life offers much to its members that they wouldn’t necessarily receive outside the organization.

Some examples of the benefits of fraternity and sorority life are:

1. Group Identity – Being a member of the FSL community provides an identity and a feeling of belonging. Finding their place is important to first-year students and FSL offers a feeling of home away from home.
2. Strong Friendships –A fraternity or sorority offers a deeper level of friendship because members share the same values and honor the mission and goals of the national organization. The student also has a large base of friends in the chapter – friends who support and encourage them in their everyday life.
3. Community Service Opportunities – FSL organizations are rooted in giving back to the community. Fraternities and sororities dedicate many hours helping others on a local and national level. Prevent Child Abuse America, Make-a-Wish Foundation, and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital are just a few of the many organizations supported by FSL chapters.
4. Leadership Opportunities – FSL men and women are leaders on college campuses – and FSL offers students many leadership opportunities within the chapter.  From being on the council of a chapter to an appointed committee, members are afforded many opportunities to step up and take leadership roles, and to hone skills that will help them in their future careers. National organizations offer members opportunities to attend leadership training throughout the year.
5. Networking Opportunities – Fraternity and sorority members are offered many opportunities to network with alumni of their local chapter and the national organization. Local alumni groups host presentations on resume building, provide connections to local companies and mentor chapter members.   After graduation, the student can connect with the national organization to find local alumni groups in the areas they will be working and living.
6. Where should my student go to find out more information on Fraternity and Sorority life at Mo State? Suggest your student visit the website (www.missouristate.edu/studentengagement/FSL/) of the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life here at Missouri State. They can stop by the office, introduce themselves and talk to staff members who can answer almost any question about FSL. You can also encourage your student to attend informational sessions on campus and to meet members of the community – they’ll also be happy to answer questions.

“Being part of the Fraternity and Sorority Life community has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. Through Alpha Sigma Alpha, I have found a supportive community that has helped me grow as both a leader and a person. Greek life has given me opportunities to serve others, build lifelong friendships, and develop skills that will benefit me long after graduation. More than anything, it has surrounded me with people who genuinely encourage one another to succeed, making Missouri State feel like home.”~Kallie Hitzelberger, Junior, Alpha Sigma Alpha, VP-Finance