3 ms·

When I started college (I'm an Engineer), I was relatively extroverted, but definitely not a partier or drinker. I wanted to make some of the same changes you d

When I started college (I'm an Engineer), I was relatively extroverted, but definitely not a partier or drinker. I wanted to make some of the same changes you discuss, so I rushed a couple fraternities and made a lot of friends. I got bids from 3 fraternities but didn't go with any of them, because in the end, as much as I liked the people, the fraternity lifestyle just didn't jive with my independence. I was still able to become well-entrenched in the social scenes, because I participated in a lot of extra-curricular activities: Formula SAE, Mobile Robotics, WKUF 97.3FM, The Muse (our art publication), DEX (collegiate marketing competition), Firebirds Car Club, started a rock band, etc. These are all things that interested me, and I met a lot of friends, across all fraternities and sororities and independents, who shared these interests. My point is this: there are a lot of ways to make friends, be social, and party. Don't sell yourself short by thinking that a fraternity is the only path. There are a lot of good reasons to join a fraternity outside of the social/party aspect, those are the things you should be considering. If a fraternity seems right to you, then do it. If not, don't worry, there are other ways. EDIT: Also, I wouldn't worry about "catching up" socially. Just try to enjoy yourself. And remember that everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) has something to teach you. Make it your mission to figure out what that is (and yes, this will be harder with some people than others).

yardie 16y ago
Wow, your experience reads almost exactly like mine. I wasn't an introvert just choosey about friends. I also did Formula SAE, Solar car racing, started a magazine with design students, started a culture-based student org. and DJed at WUVT (90.7) and house parties. Good fraternities really play down the social networking aspect of themselves. If you even bring up parties and networking during rush they usually see it as a turn off. This comes from friends that wanted me to join, but since I already had a full calendar wouldn't have time for one more thing.

yardie 16y ago

Wow, your experience reads almost exactly like mine. I wasn't an introvert just choosey about friends. I also did Formula SAE, Solar car racing, started a magazine with design students, started a culture-based student org. and DJed at WUVT (90.7) and house parties. Good fraternities really play down the social networking aspect of themselves. If you even bring up parties and networking during rush they usually see it as a turn off. This comes from friends that wanted me to join, but since I already had a full calendar wouldn't have time for one more thing.