Panhellenic Recruitment FAQs

What is the difference between IFC, NPHC, and Panhellenic?

IFC is a representative governing body for 20 of the fraternities.

NPHC is the campus coordinating body of historically African-American fraternities and sororities.

PHA is a representative governing body for nine of the sororities.

What is the difference between national and local sororities?

National sororities are one of many chapters inter/nationally, and have a support system made up of regional volunteers and a headquarters.

Local sororities are chapters that have formed on the Missouri State campus and do not have a national organization.

How many hours a week will I participate in chapter activities?

Joining a fraternity or sorority is a time commitment. The average amount of time you will spend will truly depend on your commitment to your respective chapter. During your new member period, you will have new member meetings, special programs to attend, and other chapter activities. As an initiated member, the majority of your time will be spent in chapter meetings, studying, attending social activities, playing intramurals, participating in philanthropy events, and doing community service. What's important to understand is that you get out of it whatever it is that you put into it.

How expensive is it to join? 

For Panhellenic sororities, a new member can expect to pay between $680-$1,019 their first semester and $415-$975 their second semester.

If I don't drink alcohol will I still fit in?

Just because an individual joins a fraternity or sorority does not mean that they must consume alcohol to be a part of the chapter. All chapters are required to register alcoholic events with the university and provide various safety measures to promote the safe and legal use of alcohol. The vast majority of fraternity and sorority events are non-alcoholic. 

Will I be hazed?

Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created, whether on or off chapter property, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. The fraternity and sorority community at Missouri State, as well as each chapter's inter/national organization, does not condone or tolerate hazing. Chapters that are found responsible for hazing are held accountable through their governing council and/or the Office of Student Conduct.

There are many organizations to get involved with at Missouri State, why should I join Fraternity and Sorority Life?

Missouri State University has more than 18,000 undergraduate students and a large university can be very intimidating.  As a fraternity or sorority member, you will have a close group of friends who can help you adjust to your new life and help to make campus feel smaller right away! Our chapters help members with academics, are made up of some of the most active individuals on campus, and can help you network within the campus community. Fraternity and Sorority Life will help you improve both your time management skills and your leadership skills, which are both very important in college and post college. Not only does every chapter have an executive board where new leaders can shine, but there are countless committees and various offices which keep chapter members busy and provide for great experiences.

Who else can I ask questions of?

If you would like to receive more information you can contact the fraternity and sorority advisor, Carlye Genisio, or in the Office of Student Engagement which is located in Plaster Student Union Room 131.