Joining a fraternity or sorority has its advantages and disadvantages. But once a student has joined the Greek system, is it a good idea to live in Greek housing? This depends on a number of factors related to the student, the chapter, and the town where the school is located. Here are some factors to consider before moving into a fraternity or sorority house.
Financial Considerations
First and perhaps foremost, students need to figure out how much it costs to live in Greek housing versus how much it costs to live in a dorm or in an off-campus apartment. This varies quite a bit from school to school. If rents are low in the surrounding area, then an apartment may be the best bet. However, if rents are expensive, a fraternity and sorority house might be the best bargain in town.
When comparing living costs, students should remember to compute all expenses, including the utility bills associated with an apartment and the mandatory meal plans associated with dorm life. Fraternities and sororities have one financial advantage: they're usually on or very close to campus, which means students don't need to pay for parking and the cost of commuting.
Quality of Housing
At some schools, fraternities and sororities are housed in fabulous old mansions. At other schools, the Greek houses are dumps. Although many students aren't all that concerned with nice digs, it's important to live someplace that feels comfortable, so keep the quality of housing in mind.
Space Considerations
At a fraternity or sorority house, it's unusual for students to get their own rooms. In fact, some Greek houses have sleeping rooms, which are rooms full of bunk beds where all students sleep. At the same time, fraternities and sorority houses offer lots of common spaces and can feel more like living in a home.
Academic Considerations
Does living in a fraternity or sorority house equate to a low GPA? Maybe, if the house doesn't take academics seriously and doesn't offer students good places to study. On the other hand, many houses have required study hours, nice work spaces, and lots of fellow students who may be able to help out with homework. Investigate the academic atmosphere before moving in.
Social Considerations
Living in a house where parties and social events are a regular occurrence can be a definite plus, and being surrounded constantly by friends can be great fun, especially for students who are extroverts and who don't like lots of alone time. On the other hand, students who don't live in the house can still come to social events and hang out in the house, while still having the option to get away to a more private space.
At Home in the Greek System?
There are pluses and minuses to making a fraternity or sorority house a home. Before moving in, be sure to investigate what it might be like to live in a particular house. Students should think about what's most important to them when it comes to living arrangements, and whether these needs are best met at a Greek house or elsewhere.
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