Jamell, a UT-Dallas student, attempted to join a fraternity at Southern Methodist University (SMU) to only learn that the chapter he pledged for had been suspended.
Jamell said “the reason I wanted to join a fraternity was because of the bond and the positive influences you would have from your fellow brothers.”
Besides bonding, the idea of being part of a legacy intrigued him to join. SMU allowed him to pledge for the fraternity since UT-Dallas did not have the same chapter available. Due to privacy, he would not reveal the identity of the fraternity.
He said “the process was horrible and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy but it was fun at times.”
He participated in the pledging process at SMU about three times a week. He would not reveal what exactly happened there, but his only positive experience was getting to meet and hang out with the brothers of the fraternity.
After four weeks, he discovered that the chapter he pledged for had been suspended. Instead of being upset, he was relieved that the process was over. He would not give a direct answer behind the suspension, but he did give a hint.
He said “since hazing is illegal, the stuff is left unsaid.”
He is no longer interested in joining a fraternity, even one at UT-Dallas. On a positive note, he learned more about himself from the pledging process. He realized that his morals were way more important than a fraternity. He would not sacrifice them just to get into the door. He also looked at the process as a successful networking opportunity instead of four weeks of his time wasted.
Jamell acknowledges that not all fraternities are like the one he attempted to join. For anyone planning to join Greek life, he has some advice for you.
He said “I would advise people to be careful and make sure it’s something that they really want to do. Never let anything deprive you of the morals that you set for yourself.”
Published: April 28, 2009