To my almost-certain knowledge, no NPC sorority stipulates that only freshmen (or “first-years”) are eligible to be admitted to membership. For generations, our organizations have been enriched by the talents of women who joined as upperclassmen. Some groups even allow for graduate students to be accepted in the regular recruitment process.

Because sororities emphasize the academic, social, cultural, and service components of the college experience, we do encourage qualified students to seek affiliation at the earliest possible opportunity. This way they are able to take the fullest advantage of the benefits of collegiate membership. Also, the support and mentoring offered by chapter members and alumnae advisors can have a tremendous positive impact on their initial adjustment to college.

If your daughter is an upperclassman who is undecided about participating in recruitment, it would be a great idea for her to seek advice from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs (sometimes called Greek Life) on her campus. Although it is traditional at some schools for most participants in recruitment to be freshmen, sorority membership is for a lifetime.

We received a question from a parent wondering what happens if her daughter transfers schools during college and how this may affect her sorority membership.

Membership in a sorority is truly for a lifetime.  Once you become a member of a Panhellenic sorority, that membership stays with you throughout college and your alumnae years.  If your daughter transfers during college to another university that has a chapter from the same organization, the ability to join that chapter is available.  Since membership is for a lifetime, NPC groups do not allow members to become initiates of more than one sorority. Instead, we encourage members who transfer to campuses without their organization to become involved with alumnae chapter activities in the area, where the members continue to make friendships, participate in community service, and grow as individuals.  

Whether women join an alumnae group after graduation or upon a transfer during college, sorority membership connects women with alumnae from all walks of life. Networking opportunities, help in a career search or advice about a new city are just a few ways lifetime membership helps sorority women stay connected.

We received a question from the mother of a potential new member, who is a “beginner” in her knowledge of the sorority system. Here’s some general advice for her and all beginners on sorority recruitment.

For many families whose daughters are considering sorority recruitment, it may seem overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the process or terminology. NPC has launched a Web site, thesororitylife.com, which provides great information about sororities, as well as an e-newsletter with helpful information.

If your daughter is considering participating in recruitment, a good place to start is the campus office of Fraternity/Sorority Affairs, or Greek Life office. On most campuses, these offices are housed within the Student Affairs Division. The director of the program should be able to provide you with the information necessary to register for recruitment and give you an idea of what to expect. Ask about the financial responsibilities and other requirements of membership such as time commitment. Your campus Panhellenic can also provide information about what to wear during recruitment, and can let you know whether or not recommendations are suggested.

Sororities on each campus are different, and so it’s important for your daughter to have an open mind and get to know each group during recruitment. Many groups have Web sites that can provide additional information about their organizations. The best advice is for your daughter to be herself. During recruitment, encourage her to have genuine and honest conversations, spend time really getting to know the members, and look for the group where she feels most comfortable.