Friday, January 16, 2015

Rushing a Fraternity at Tulane

Rushing a fraternity at Tulane is extremely low-key and stress free. In keeping with the Big Easy, the process is slow and laidback. The rush process formally begins in the fall, with each chapter having a minimum of two highly publicized, formal rush events. Beyond those two events, if a student has interest in a specific fraternity it is up to them to maintain contact with brothers. Usually, this entails anything from a BBQ to stopping by a tailgate tent. Bids are then officially given out in the spring after a few more formal rush events.

There are so many opportunities to get involved at Tulane that Greek life is really not a necessity. As such, first year students have time to get their bearings and explore the school without being restricted to one group of people. This is completely different from anything that you’ll hear about a big southern state school, where you need to arrive on day one with a clear cut idea of who you want to rush, and what connections will facilitate your efforts.

The stereotypes about frat bros DO NOT apply here. Seriously. Everyone is so involved that if a person is in a fraternity, they’re likely participating in a host of other clubs and organizations as well.

Ultimately, if you’re even slightly considering Greek life I highly recommend checking out a few formal rush events and keeping an open mind. Life in the Crescent City is exciting, and joining a fraternity could be one more route not only into the local culture, but also into a brotherhood that offers tradition and sources of moral fortitude, in addition to a supportive network that can be invaluable when searching for jobs. And let us not forget Animal House was released in 1978, hazing at Tulane is strictly prohibited, so you needn’t worry about having to go through the wacky ceremonies you see in the movies.

Personally, my experience at Tulane has been invaluably changed and improved by my involvement in a fraternity. As an initial skeptic, I highly encourage you (especially the doubters) to give Greek life a shot. 

By: Justin Picard

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