When I arrived at RPI, I was more or less indifferent to the fraternity system. I had heard all sorts of stories about them, but I decided that stories should not be the basis for my opinion. I needed to take it in for myself and make my own decisions. So I did. I participated in some random fraternity events, met brothers at different houses, and felt the whole thing out. I decided not to rush anywhere.

I still ask myself “why?” Did I dislike the fraternity system and what it as a whole did? Nope. Fraternities do some wonderful things on this campus; they perform acts of community service to both the RPI and Troy communities. Did I dislike the people? No, many of the people I have met at that time were very outgoing individuals who were good, friendly people. Many of my friends to this day are greek. What did I dislike about it? There wasn’t anything in particular to dislike. I chose not to go greek because I did not wish to and because all that the greek system has to offer can also be found here in the independent community on campus.

There are campus run community service organizations for independents and greeks alike, from Habitat for Humanity to pugwash. These organizations put forth a great deal of time and effort to help the Troy and RPI communities. What about the social aspect of the greek system? Where is that offered in the independent community? There are hundreds of clubs on this campus that offer you a plethora of different activities to choose from. There are the performing arts organizations, science societies, gaming clubs, student government bodies, multicultural organizations and so on. Club activities are a great way to socialize with all sorts of people, some who are just as outgoing and friendly if not more so, since there are more independents.

I am not saying that there is anything wrong with going greek, or that being greek means that you can not participate in campus activities. My thought is that I have no need to go greek when I have all that I need in the independent community.