Frequently Asked Questions

Students

How do I determine which chapter is best for me?

The best way to decide if a chapter is a good "fit" is to meet current members and ask questions. What are your interests? Where do you want to grow? What opportunties exist for you? Fraternity & Sorority info sessions and recruitment events are perfect opportunities to learn more information about each fraternity and sorority.

What are the financial obligations?

Costs to be a part of a sorority or fraternity differ greatly from chapter to chapter. Traditional fees include new member fees, initiation fees as well as semester dues. Please consult each chapter in which you are interested to obtain membership costs.

Do Greek chapters provide housing?

Housing is currently unavailable for fraternity and sorority chapters at CSU San Marcos. 

Is there hazing?

California State University San Marcos expects that all members of recognized student organizations will observe and fully comply with the State of California Educational and Penal Code requirements on hazing. All students are expected to adhere to regulations set forth by their respective regional/inter/national organization, the State of California, and the University concerning hazing. California State University San Marcos prohibits hazing by any recognized student organization. In order to foster positive relations within the CSUSM Greek community, all new members sign a no-hazing agreement upon joining a fraternity or sorority. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact Nicki Croly, Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Life (760-750-4952), or the University Hazing Education Team (UHET)

How much time will I have to put into it?

Like most activities in college, you get out of it what you put into it. On average, members contribute about 3-4 hours per week to weekly meetings, projects and events.

Parents & Families

How can I support my student as they consider Fraternity & Sorority Life?

Joining a fraternity or sorority is a making a lifelong commitment. We hope that parents/family members can act as a support network to encourage your student to take the time to find out more about the community. Asking questions will help them to think critically in deciding if Fraternity & Sorority Life is right for them and if so, which group. Provide them with more thoughtful questions, such as what values are fundemental to their fraternal experience? But also the practical questions, like how much will it cost?

What do I do if I have a question or concern about the recruitment process, the new member experience, etc?

The chapter/colony President should be able to address any of your questions. Each also has an advisor (non student, alumni) who can help. If they can not assist you or your questions/concerns are of a more personal or serious nature, please do not hesitate to contact Nicki Croly, Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Life (760-750-4952).

My student is interested in joining an organization not recognized by the University, what should I do?

All student organizations at CSUSM go through a recognition process which includes advisement and education from the campus and CSU. Fraternities and sororities additionally are provided training/education and have policies/procedures from the University and their individual regional/inter/national groups around organizational and risk management. Your student may be recruited by a group not recognized by CSUSM (please refer to the Chapter/Colony Directory). Because there is no affiliation with the University, students who join these groups are not advised on or are required to follow the University's expectations as outlined in the Student Organization or Fraternity/Sorority Handbooks. If you suspect that your student may become or is involved with an unrecognized group, we advise you to talk with your student about University recognition and what that means for them as an individual. Please also refer them to the Community Notice.