Pledging

Frequently Asked Questions

Isn't a fraternity supposed to be for men only?

Although most fraternities for women call themselves sororities, the word "fraternity" is a more general term for a Greek letter organization. We are a fraternity in the true sense of the word.

What is a professional fraternity?

A professional fraternity selects its members based on common professional goals and interests. The more common social fraternities choose their members based on similar social interests. In addition to our professional events, our members do partake in a variety of social events each quarter to ensure strong bonds of friendship.

What is "rush"?

Rush is the recruitment process where a fraternity can familiarize itself with those interested in becoming members. For our chapter, this occurs during the first three weeks (Weeks 1 - 3) of the fall and spring semesters. During these weeks, our chapter hosts 4 to 5 social events so that potential pledges are able to interact with members and ask questions. These consist of 3 open rushes and 1 to 2 closed rushes. Our members will also be making announcements in classrooms. The day following the final closed rush, bids are handed out to individuals of whom the fraternity believes will be an asset and future ally in the pursuit of the Three Fraternal Objects. A bid is an invitation to pledgeship.

What is "pledging"?

For many organizations and clubs, people can join by simply filling a form and/or paying dues. Pledging is a more intensive, semester-long process where a potential member interacts with the current members and learns more about the Fraternity.

Anyone who is in the progress of or has taken two courses in chemistry may pledge Alpha Chi Sigma. Most undergraduates in science and engineering departments are automatically qualified.

Do our members haze pledges?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. As a professional fraternity, we have a ZERO-TOLERANCE policy on hazing. Pledges who are uncomfortable with what is asked of them by a member of the fraternity should voice their concerns and, if necessary, report the matter to one of the chapter officers.

How much of a time committment is pledging?

Expect to spend a minimum of three or four hours per week with fellow pledges and current members. We have mandatory pledge meetings once a week and recommended/mandatory activities every weekend. The time commitment is more than that to join most clubs, but much less than that to join a social fraternity. We will not wake you up at 5am to do push ups or make you run 10 miles! The time commitment for pledging is meant to be the same as for a minimally active member. Many pledges find themselves voluntarily spending more time with Alpha Chi Sigma than required. It's fun--you'll see.

What will I do as a pledge?

As a pledge you will have a "big," an active member that acts as mentor and will help you through the pledging process. You will learn about the history of the Fraternity and the significant events of our chapter. There are many events that are traditional and others that are strictly for fun. Pledges must attend the mandatory traditional events. As for the social events, we have bonfires, go camping, go hiking in southwest Virginia, and play intramural sports--just to name a few.

Is it expensive to join?

No. There is a small fee for pledging and a one time membership fee.

Where can I find more information?

If you are interested in rushing, please attend our open and closed rushes. We will have many rush events during the first three weeks of the fall and spring semesters so that you can familiarize yourself with members. You can also email the the Vice Master Alchemist.