"Many professionals join alumni chapters at costs that could easily reach $1,000," she says. In addition to joining fees, there are event fees. Regional and national sorority conventions that give graduates an opportunity to meet members of all ages of their chapters from other colleges, but it costs money to travel to and participate in these events. Kendrick adds that supporting various fundraising efforts throughout the year and purchasing expensive paraphernalia can further add to alumni expenses.
Career Advantages
Fraternity and sorority members are more likely to graduate and, as a group, have slightly higher GPAs than their non-Greek peers. Beyond graduation, if you nurture the social connections you'll develop as a member of the Greek system, you can have access to a lifelong network that can help you get a job and advance in your career. Numerous politicians, Fortune 500 executives, Supreme Court justices and American presidents belonged to fraternities or sororities.
The Bottom Line
The expenses associated with Greek life may not be that different than what you'd pay as a non-Greek student purchasing the school's room and board package and participating in other extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, university-wide events and social gatherings. Also, Greek scholarships are sometimes available to help offset college expenses. Expenses do vary significantly by chapter, so if money is a concern, find out as much as you can about the costs you'll face before you pledge, and decide whether those expenses are worth it for the experiences you'll have and the connections you'll gain through Greek life.
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