*My son is considering joining a SigEp chapter, what can I expect?

 

*What is Sigma Phi Epsilon’s stance on hazing?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is a Fraternity?

A fraternity is a group of men who believe and live by the same set of values, and foster a close friendship through those values. These values bind together not only the current chapter members, but members and alumni throughout the country. Fraternity men incorporate these values in all aspects of their lives, never letting go of those beliefs. Sigma Phi Epsilon's values are Virtue, Diligence, and Brotherly Love.

Why does Sigma Phi Epsilon pride itself on being “different?”

SigEp prides itself on being different because that difference has helped us come to lead the fraternity world. SigEps refuse to be stereotyped as “frat boys,” nor its chapters as “animal houses.” Sigma Phi Epsilon is dedicated to the idea that a fraternity is much more than a social organization -- it is an institution of higher learning; one that centers around the ideals of allowing one to live his best life.

My son is considering joining a SigEp chapter, what can I expect?

When a young man joins Sigma Phi Epsilon, he immediately finds out he has joined something unique. In joining our SigEp chapter, he instantly becomes a brother. The Balanced Man Program (BMP) eliminates pledging from the chapter experience, and puts an emphasis on continued development throughout college and beyond.

You should expect he will be involved in the chapter, on campus, and in the community. By your son becoming a SigEp, he will be exposed to a life of balance and encouraged to pursue leadership.

What is Sigma Phi Epsilon’s stance on hazing?

Sigma Phi Epsilon is clear and concise in its stance against hazing. Hazing is illegal; therefore it has no place in the Fraternity. Sigma Phi Epsilon holds its members to the highest possible standard, so breaking the laws of the country, state, and university will not be tolerated.

Sigma Phi Epsilon truly believes that the words “hazing” and “fraternity” are not interchangeable. SigEp has, for many years, been breaking the stereotype that fraternities haze. The National Fraternity, through programming and leadership opportunities, has promoted the idea of safe and responsible development. Hazing is the direct opposite of everything Sigma Phi Epsilon represents.

What is Sigma Phi Epsilon's perspective on alcohol & substance abuse?

Sigma Phi Epsilon does not promote the use of alcohol in any manner whatsoever. It is the national fraternity’s opinion that alcohol should only be used in a safe and responsible manner by people of legal age.

Sigma Phi Epsilon goes to great lengths to educate its members on alcohol and its effects. Through national programming, Sigma Phi Epsilon helps its members understand the consequences of one’s choices when alcohol is involved. SigEp also promotes risk management guidelines to help chapters and members make smart decisions when it comes to alcohol.

What is the Leadership Continuum?

Sigma Phi Epsilon’s Leadership Continuum is a balance of self-development and team leadership skills training composed in four programs: EDGE, the Carlson Leadership Academy, the Ruck Leadership Institute, and the Quest to Greece. Through self-discovery, analysis, and interaction, brothers develop skills necessary to lead balanced lives and to continue leading the fraternity world.

Who are some of SigEp’s alumni, and what do they say about the SigEp experience?

Check out some of Sigma Phi Epsilon’s prominent alumni here.

What is my role as a parent?
Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son as he meets people through the recruitment process. Once your son joins, you will have the opportunity to participate in chapter and campus programs, and if you choose, be active on the alumni board. To become involved as a volunteer at your son's chapter or another local chapter, please contact the Florida Zeta Chapter Alumni Board. Our Alumni Board Information Page has contact information for the current board members.

How does my son go about joining Sigma Phi Epsilon?
Sigma Phi Epsilon chapters participate in a process known as membership recruitment. Your son has an opportunity to meet undergraduate members and learn what Sigma Phi Epsilon has to offer.

Everyone likes to belong; to feel a part of something. Each Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter has its own unique programs and strengths, yet each is primarily based on the development of the "balanced man." Balance suggests that college provides a rich environment to learn, grow, challenge, and self-manage... most of all, a stepping point to adult life.

While we cannot extend your son a bid before his spring semester in his freshman year (due to university regulations), we would love to get to know him before that point.  He can fill out the form on our recruitment page to get in contact with us.

 

 

Aren't fraternities just like the one shown in the movie "Animal House?"
Unfortunately, after the showing of that movie, fraternity members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible and abusive. In reality, fraternities are value-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships. The following code of ethics represents some of the basic expectations of fraternal membership:

"I will strive for academic achievement and practice academic integrity."

"I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally, psychologically or sexually abuse or haze any human being."

"I will respect my property and the property of the others; therefore, I will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property."

"I will neither use nor support the use of illegal drugs."

"I will neither misuse nor support the misuse of alcohol."

"I acknowledge that a clean and attractive environment is essential to both physical and mental health; therefore, I will do all in my power to see that the chapter property is properly cleaned and maintained."

"I will challenge all my fraternity members to abide by these fraternal expectations and will confront those who violate them."

The Basic Expectations talk about alcohol. What is it really like in the fraternity?
Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with fraternal ideals. All chapters are expected to uphold state, county, and city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.

In Sigma Phi Epsilon, members are educated on the issues of alcohol and drug abuse throughout their membership experience. You'll find fraternity members participating in alcohol-free social activities such as moonlight bowling, dinner exchanges, and lip sync contests. Students who choose not to drink will know that it's okay and feel comfortable with their decision.

I'm concerned about my son's grades--what impact would fraternity membership have?
Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Sigma Phi Epsilon assists by offering scholarship programs which may include study partners, mentors, study hours, and time management workshops. Your son can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors.

In addition, during the short three semesters that we have been established at Emory, we achieved the highest GPA for a fraternity in the fall of 2007 (3.51) and are currently tied for the highest cumulative fraternity GPA.  This is a testament not only to the academic quality of our brotherhood but also to the development programs and academic tutoring programs we provide to our members

While Sigma Phi Epsilon is concerned about the academic achievement of our members, your son is still ultimately responsible for utilizing the resources made available.


Who is actually in charge of the Fraternity?
Undergraduate fraternity members manage the day-to-day operations of the chapter. These men are assisted by their fellow members, a local alumnus who serves as chapter counselor, and a group of volunteers who meet regularly as an alumni board. Frequently, parents such as you serve as volunteers as well.

Sigma Phi Epsilon offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Our chapters and alumni provide Sigma Phi Epsilon the strength and resources to support our undergraduate brothers. Professional staff from the college and university are also available to assist and monitor the activities of fraternities.

Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?
In the first year of membership, a one-time, lifetime membership fee is assessed. After this fee is paid, your son's only expense will be his regular dues. A variety of payment plans is can offered if needed. Scholarships and loans are offered through the Sigma Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation.

Does being in a fraternity take a lot of time?
Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate, and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his fraternity involvement, your son will learn how to balance his academic work, campus involvement, and social commitments.