Ball State University's Greek Life takes a lot of flack from the Daily News and students on campus.
However, as much as they are criticized, fraternities and sororities can accomplish good things.
Students raise money for countless good causes through philanthropies. From Riley Children's Hospital to literacy to Alzheimer's research, the greek men and women on campus contribute thousands to charities across the country.
In addition to the money donated and work done for charities by the sororities and fraternities, the groups also foster a sense of family for students away from home.
The feelings of sisterhood and brotherhood found in greek life are unlike any other bond among college friends.
Not better or worse, but unique.
Shared experiences through recruitment, initiation and bonding events foster relationships people beyond the group could never truly understand.
While it's not all fun and games, and some students' actions ruin the reputation of the entire group, overall the greeks on Ball State's campus are not the worst people in the world.
Without the greeks, we wouldn't have Watermelon Bust, Water Daze, Derby Days, Turtle Tugs and Arrow Games.
These philanthropic events encourage students to pull themselves away from their studies for a few hours to have some fun while donating the money to worthy causes.
Some students also develop leadership skills while involved with their greek organization.
Learning how to handle issues that arise when dealing with large groups of people is a skill that will likely help the students perform better in the workplace.
Overall, grades of students involved in greek organizations are emphasized greatly.
Although, the level of adherence to GPA and its emphasis wavers from one group to the next, on the whole students must maintain a decent GPA to participate in social activities.
Being involved in a sorority or fraternity is a privilege, which is why certain things are required in order to become a member and to remain active.
That's right, privilege. Requirements must be met, that's why there is recruitment: to weed out those who don't meet the requirements.
And they don't pay for friends.
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