Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Greek life in general:

Q.  What is a Greek Organization?

A.  A Greek organization is a group of individuals of similar interests bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through rituals in which all members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth and knowledge, to name a few. Each group works to instill these ideals in their members through their everyday activities. It is referred to as a Greek organization because the name consists of Greek letters. These letters serve as a reminder of the values of the group. Fraternity is a name applied to all Greek organizations, but specifically men's groups, while sorority is the name applied only to women's Greek organizations.

Q.  What about stereotypes?

A.  Most people have seen movies or television shows that portray Greeks in a negative light. These depictions are for entertainment value only and seldom depict Greek life in a realistic manner.

Q.  What is hazing and does Kappa Chi Alpha haze it's members?

A.  Hazing is defined as any mental or physical requirement, request, or obligation placed upon any member or prospective member of an organization (team, group, Greek, etc.) by other members of that organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of: discomfort, pain, fright, disgrace, injury, or personal degradation or which violates any federal, state, local statute or University policy.

Kappa Chi Alpha, in cooperation with the policies set forth by Western Connecticut State University does not haze.  We will never do anything to cause you harm and discomfort.  We are here to make friends and to make a difference in the community; not to hurt individuals.

Q.  What are the benefits of entering your organization?

A. 

Academics

College is a place for education and learning and academics play a major role in the Greek system. Academics are stressed by members of Kappa Chi Alpha and by Westconn. Our sorority prides itself on winning the highest academic award for Greek life at Western for many years. To those who need help, we offer tutoring in all subject areas and in order to be a member, you must attain a GPA of a 2.3 or better 

Leadership

Fraternities and sororities are essentially self governing organizations. This means they make their own rules and sanction those groups that do not live up to the community's standards. This gives members many opportunities to gain valuable leadership experience. We have many officers and committees of which you can gain leadership skills. Through these positions, you gain important knowledge and experience in organizing and working with people. This experience can assist you in becoming involved with other organizations and finding a job upon graduation.

Friendship

Perhaps the most mentioned aspect of Greek Life is the friendship and camaraderie that exists between members of our sorority. Coming to college can leave students feeling alone. The Greek system helps to instantly connect students to campus. Greek Life promotes the development of close ties between members by working toward common goals and having fun together. These relationships transcend ordinary friendship to become like that of a sister. Like family ties, the bond formed is for a lifetime.

Community Service

Philanthropy is social and community service undertaken by a Greek chapter. Kappa Chi Alpha's philanthropy is Dream Come True, an organization fighting cancer in children.  Every year, we hold our annual battle of the bands in order to make money for this organization.  Fraternities and sororities work to support local charities, such as The American Cancer Society and Habitat for Humanity. Chapters donate to these organizations not only to give back to the community, but for the enjoyment of working together for a good cause. Community service provides the members with a valuable learning and growth experience.

Q. Aren't sororities expensive?

A.  Being a local sorority, we have the ability to designate costs of our own.  We have the lowest amount of dues out of all the organizations on campus.  Much different than national sororites, all of the money we earn, we keep.  We have no quotas to maintain because we are local.

Hopefully, these will answer your questions!  We look forward to seeing you at RUSH!  If you have any more questions, feel free to contact either myself or any one of the sisters.  We would be happy to help!