What is pledging?

In many chapters after accepting an invitation to join (sometimes referred to as a “bid”), one will enter a period of time referred to as “pledging.” This is a period of orientation under the guidance of the initiated members. Pledging is an unforgettable time filled with special events and retreats. It’s the time when you begin to see the great network that connects all Greeks together. However, it is important to note that not all chapters have a pledging period. Some chapters invite you to become a fully initiated member upon accepting an invitation to join. Other chapters may invite you to become an associate or new member, which includes many of the same privileges as initiated members. You should be sure to take the time to ask about each chapter’s pledging of associate/new member program while going through the recruitment process.

What is New Member Education?

In many chapters, after accepting an invitation to join, new members enter into an education period often referred to as “pledging,” “associate membership,” or “new member period.” This is a time of orientation to the history and values of each organization under the leadership of initiated members and chapter advisors. The new member period is an unforgettable time filled with special events and bonding opportunities that introduce new members into the network that connects all Greeks. The new member phase lasts no longer than one semester and the average length is eight weeks. Each chapter has their own unique new member education process, with variances in length, structure, and content. Remember that there are chapters who do not have a new member period and choose to initiate new members immediately after they join. Students seeking membership into an organization are encouraged to ask chapters about their new member program.

Greek 101

In addition to going through the new member process in a chapter, fraternity and sorority new members have an opportunity to take a 1 credit course (GREEK 101) to learn more about the history of all Greek Organizations, what it means to be a fraternity man/sorority woman, and the Washington State University fraternity/sorority community. The course is peer taught, pass/fail, and will last for 8 weeks in the Fall. There are a limited number of spots available, so you are encouraged to sign up soon. For more information about the course or how to sign up for it, please contact the Center for Fraternity & Sorority Life at (509) 335-5433.