East Carolinian

Issue date: 1/27/09 Section: News

Media Credit: staff photo

The Inter-Fraternity Council [IFC], the umbrella organization that oversees rush and other major events of the 16-member fraternity system, held the first session of their three-night spring rush at Mendenhall Student Center last night.

The event drew a large response from men on campus that were eager to see what Greek life at ECU is all about.

Rushees came to the event and were able to meet representatives from all 16 IFC chapters from 6-8 p.m. and later were able to visit Greek houses of their choice from 8-10 p.m.

IFC President and member of Delta Sigma Phi, Patrick Sebastian, was pleased with the event and the turnout, but said it's not too late for potential members to rush in the spring.

"By no means is it too late to come out to rush this week," said Sebastian. "Anyone is invited to visit as many Greek houses as they please Tuesday and Wednesday."

Rush will continue on Tuesday from 7-10 p.m. and on Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. According to Sebastian, bids will be extended to any potential members after rush closes on Wednesday night at 9 p.m. A bid is an invitation from a fraternity that is given to students that they feel should join their Greek organization.

Interested students may visit as many houses as they please during these days.

"It is ideal to visit a house two nights," said IFC Rush Chairman and Sigma Alpha Epsilon member, Jamie Tipton. "Most fraternities like to see a potential member at least twice before they extend a bid."

There are many common misconceptions about fraternities that were clarified at Monday's event. According to Sebastian, ECU and the IFC have a zero tolerance policy on hazing.

Another question on the minds of many students is whether or not they can afford to be in a fraternity. Many fraternities offer payment plans to their members, which may persuade those who are worried about finances to join.

"Just go out to the houses during these nights and give it a try. Greek life offers young men and women at ECU a chance to grow as individuals while forming bonds that will last a lifetime. There is definitely a fraternity for everyone," Sebastian said.

Interested students may contact a Greek representative this week at 328-4235 with any questions about rush.



This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

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