Q: If I participate in Recruitment, am I obligated to join a sorority?

A: No, many women choose to go through Recruitment to meet people and make new friends. Recruitment is an opportunity for you to visit the sororities, get a glimpse of Greek life, and assess whether or not you would like to be a part of the UHM Greek community.

 

Q: What if I only want to be in a certain sorority?

A: Potential New Members often experience the greatest disappointment by beginning the Recruitment process only wanting to be in one or a few certain sororities. Sorority membership is more than wearing certain Greek letters. It is giving your time and energy to the sorority, agreeing to abide by all the rules and regulations, and living up to high expectations. Don’t make a decision based on stereotypes and others’ opinions. Keep an open mind and make a decision that is right for you.

 

Q: Is there a GPA requirement to participate in formal recruitment?

A: Although the Panhellenic Association does not require a minimum GPA to participate in recruitment, each sorority has their own minimum GPA required for membership. If you have a question about a particular sorority's requirement, please directly contact the chapter.  

 

Q: How much time will I be expected to commit to a sorority?

A: Members are expected to attend meetings typically held every Monday throughout the semester. Expectations regarding participation in recruitment activities, philanthropy, or other events vary between both chapters. Members can submit attendance excuses in the event of a conflict with class or other obligations; however they are encouraged to do so ahead of time and to fulfill their commitments to become involved within their individual chapters.

 

Q: Do you haze?

A: No! Hazing is NOT a part of responsible Greek life. UH Manoa's Greek life is no exception. In fact, the National Panhellenic Conference has strict policies against hazing and it is not tolerated. Both Panhellenic chapters strictly prohibit hazing or peer pressure of any form within their organizations. Each year the leadership and members of each chapter are trained by the Office of Student Life and Development on how to identify, prevent, and prohibit hazing within their own organizations.

 

Q: What is the pledging process like?

A: The pledging process begins from the moment the potential new member receives their bid (invitation). This is a period, typically 8 to 9 weeks in length, during which time the invitee is encouraged to learn about the organization they are about to join — its history, values and obligations — before becoming initiated as an official member of the organization.

 

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Due to the transition from the peak of the pandemic, to going back to in-person, the costs for each sorority has varied. Many of our members help finance these expenses either with the support of their family or through part-time jobs both on and off-campus. Specific information on current costs will be shared during recruitment by each chapter and some details are posted on our Recruitment 101 page. The costs do not go over a thousand for the year.

 

Q: Will any events be in-person this year?

A: Due to new state regulations, we have been having all in-person events! The only time there are online events is for when it is more convenient for everyone or if there is a guest speaker! There will definitely be many opportunities for sisters to bond and get to know each other! If state regulations change, we will update everyone, as we do want to keep all sisters and PNM's always safe:)