FAQ's

Q:	How much does it cost to be a member of a sorority?
A:	Given the benefits provided, Greek membership is a bargain. However, students should consider the costs in planning their personal budgets. Dues and assessments for members of sororities who live out of the house total about $500 per semester. In addition, there are one-time initiation and house fund assessments, which average $450 and are paid during the first semester. Most sororities offer payment plans.
Q:	How much time does sorority life require?
A:	Like most other extra-curricular activities, how much you get out of your Greek membership is related to how much you put in. On average, expect to contribute four hours per week for meetings and mandatory activities. Optional activities such as holding an office, attending social events, playing on an intramural sports team, or helping out with various projects will of course take additional time. With good time management, your Greek activities will easily fit into your weekly schedule and allow plenty of time for classes, studying, work, and participation in other campus activities.
Q:	What is hazing, and do Chico State NPC sororities haze?
A:	Hazing is defined as any action taken which produces bodily harm or danger, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, fright, or ridicule. Hazing is condemned by all fraternity and sorority organizations in the State of California, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, The National Panhellenic Conference, and California State University, Chico. To ensure that activities defined as hazing do not occur, all NPC affiliated sororities have their own risk management programs and policies regarding hazing; The Panhellenic Council exists to actively reinforce these policies as well. California State University's hazing policy can be found within the CSUC University Catalog under policies and regulations. In addition, the Office of Greek Life provides a confidential hotline (Student Concerns Line, or C-line) which can be used by anyone to report any incedents of hazing. The number is 1-800-556-6604. The number is operational anytime and completely anonymous
Q:	I've heard that sororities have various reputations-how do I handle this information?
A:	Sorority chapters are composed of many individuals with their own special qualities and talents which contribute to teh entire group. When deciding about a chapter, the only opinion that matters is your own. If you allow somebody else's perception to influence you, you will not be satisfied with your choices in recruitment. Each chapter of a sorority is different from campus to campus and from year to year. Remember that you are choosing a sisterhood, not a reputation.
Q:	If I go through recruitment am I obligated to join?
A:	Absolutely not. This is a time to assess whether you wish to join a sorority. You are encouraged to participate in Recruitment because it is an excellent opportunity to learn about sorority life. If you decide not to join, you still will have made several friends throughout the recruitment process and now you will be a little more familiar with their experiences as a sorority member. By no means will your choice be held against you.
Q:	How do I decide which sororities I prefer?
A:	Each potential new member will have a different experience in each group, depending on who she meets, her personal preference and personality. Ask yourself a few questions as you participate in recruitment: Are these members women you can truly feel are your sisters? Are the goals of the organization similar to your own? A sorority should be a second home. The answers to your questions should guide you to the right house for you. Your Rho Chi will also be of great help in sorting out what's the best fit for you.
Q:	What if I turn down a bid that I receive?
A:	If you receive a bid through Spring Formal Recruitment and decide not to accept it, you may not participate in recruitment until the next Spring Formal Recruitment, and you may not participate in Continuous Open Bidding. We urge you to think very carefully before turning down a bid. Emotions have a tendency to cloud thinking and judgment. Please give yourself and the sorority a chance to prove that you made the right choice. For more information concerning the Acceptance of membership invitations, please see Policy For Accepting Formal Membership Invitations, under Recruitment.