Southern Methodist University - Greek Life

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

New students foreign to the Greek system will be stunned by the phenomenon created by the fraternities and sororities here on campus. Greek life feeds directly into the community created by SMU with its small student population and functions as the primary way of life—well, at least socially. On the other hand, while people may assume what they will about Greek life and attach certain labels to it (such as elitism and “buying your friends”), most will soon find themselves amongst the crowd, either by joining it or making friends who participate in it. Being Greek allows you instant access into theme parties that are held every weekend. Most Greeks are proud that they are a part of an organization, but by no means will they treat you differently because you are not Greek . . . you just won’t be able to get into most of the parties. Because SMU is in the South, recruitment is an immense ordeal, and quite a bit of emphasis is placed on the entire scene.

Every day, different colored jerseys are visible all over campus, in addition to Greek T-shirts that everyone wears to class. Girls are also equipped with buttons on their purses and backpacks. But once again, Greek life does not take over the entire campus. It’s just highly noticeable. On the flip side, the percentage of students joining fraternities and sororities is slowly dwindling.Don’t make assumptions about the people or the system; check it out and judge for yourself.

Free Profile Tools

Do I Stand A Chance?

Calculate YOUR chances of admission at every school CP covers!

__%

Personality Match

Calculate YOUR personality match with every school CP covers!

__%

What'll It Cost Me?

Estimate your out-of-pocket costs at every school CP covers!

$__,___

Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

You are not overwhelmed by Greek... You are not overwhelmed by Greek life, but it is extremely easy to get into. The frats and sororities are nice in general, especially if you find the non-hazing ones. Most parties are Greek related, so if partying is your thing, then go Greek. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Sororities pay for status. They’re... Sororities pay for status. They’re so pointless in comparison to fraternities. Girls pay huge dues and don’t reap the same benefits as guys. You don’t see the same dispersal of money with sororities as you do with fraternities. It doesn’t dominate the school, but it has a definite presence in the social scene. Greeks have the parties on the weekend. It’s worth it to join, if you meet the right people. You’re by no means ruled out of Greek life if you don’t join. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Greek life is very present at this... Greek life is very present at this school. I would say that it borders on domination of the social scene. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Having a Greek system helps our... Having a Greek system helps our school. It gives everyone something to do. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Most of the parties are Greek.... Most of the parties are Greek. It’s not necessary to be a member to attend some of their activities, though. The parties are usually off campus at nifty bars and themed. The school supports safety, and uses buses to prevent drunk driving, which I think is way cool. 12345 Greek Life Report

Facts

Did You Know?

Each semester, Greek organizations pair up and participate in Talent Show during Family Weekend in the fall, and Sing Song during Mother’s/Father’s Weekend in the spring.

In the fall, fraternities and sororities build and present floats for the homecoming parade and they compete for first, second, or third place. Most of the homecoming king and queen nominees are Greek.

SMU participates in deferred rush, which means that recruitment takes place during the last week of the holiday break.

Most Recent Contributing Author

Name: Peter Goldschmidt
Hometown: Jefferson City, MO
Major: Financial Consulting

Peter likes to run marathons.

Contributing Author Internship

College Prowler is actively seeking talented students to be "Contributing Authors," and assist with updating the College Prowler guide to their school. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain internship experience, be a part of a nationally recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college. Read more about the internship.