As a parent, it's a good idea for you to learn about fraternities so you can help your son make the best decision about whether or not he or she should be part of the Greek life. This information is to help give you more insight as to what IFC fraternities stand for.

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What Joining an IFC Fraternity Means 

Joining a fraternity means joining a lifelong brotherhood of men who will drop what they are doing to be there for you in your time of need. Greek life at the University of North Florida will not only bring your son into an organization of men who will be lifelong brothers, but it also brings them into a fraternal community that they will be able to build relationships and foster friendships throughout their life. Members of our fraternities make a lifelong commitment to hold themselves to a higher standard- to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Therefore, our fraternity men work hard to make sure they maintain strong academics, a good image with the community and active campus involvement. Your student should know that they are expected not only work to better themselves, but also strive to better those around them by being an ever present support system for all members of the UNF community. 

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Academics
Academics should be your child's number one focus while in college. That's why most Greek organizations require a minimum GPA in order to remain a member. Usually, each individual chapter has an elected official who is responsible for keeping track of members and their academic performance. Furthermore, many fraternities have educational programs, such as tutoring and study sessions, which can assist the entire chapter in excelling academically. Most national organizations also offer member scholarships. Since obtaining a degree is the main reason for attending college, make sure your student realizes that he must keep up his grades if he wants to participate in a Greek organization.

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Time Commitment

Students should consider time commitments when joining any organization on campus. Fraternity membership does require a commitment of time. Your student should count on your student participating in regular weekly meetings along with service projects, leadership programs, and social activities throughout the year. Like any activity, students need to strike a good balance with their commitments.

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Financial Responsibility
Your child will have financial responsibilities when it comes to joining a fraternity. At most schools, there is a one-time new member/initiation fee as well as semester membership dues. Depending on which organization he wants to join will determine the amount of dues he/she will have to pay each semester. If your child is really interested in becoming a member of the Greek life, you need to sit down with him or her and work out a college budget to determine whether or not joining a fraternity is affordable. 

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Hazing

Hazing is prohibited by law in the state of Florida. Hazing is not something that is consistent with the values of our community. There is education both at the chapter level and new member level of the IFC. Chapter leadership is educated both in UNF polices and the law. They are also required to sign paperwork indicating that they are aware of all policies. New members go through educational sessions teaching them what hazing is, and what to do if hazing is suspected. If you suspect any hazing incidents, please contact the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life at ofsl@unf.edu. Anything that is e-mailed to the office is taken in strict confidence, and you may remain anonymous.

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Alcohol

Alcohol is challenging issue for college students in general and for fraternities. Organizations receive significant training from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, the Interfraternity Council and their national organizations regarding alcohol and risk management. Alcohol is not permitted in recruitment activities or new member education programs.

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The Oversight of Fraternities

Every Fraternity at the University of North Florida is a local chapter of a national organization, which means they all have a governance structure that includes local and regional alumni volunteers and a national leadership structure. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life recognizes these undergraduate chapters and provides a level of oversight designed to promote a healthy experience for our students.

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You should discuss with your child what he would like to do and then support their decision. If your student decides that joining an organization is the right decision, make sure he thoroughly researches the different membership opportunities that are available here at the University of North Florida. If you have any additional questions, you can contact IFC or the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life any time at ofsl@unf.edu.