University of California - Santa Barbara - Greek Life

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Only a small percentage of UCSB students choose to go Greek. It seems that since Santa Barbara is full of other ways to have a social life and to make friends, fewer people turn to the Greek system. Even though the percentage of UCSB students in Greek life is small, they definitely have a voice and a presence in Isla Vista and on campus. The Greek system has undergone a lot of changes in its bureaucracy and conduct rules to the point that, as organizations, they are held to stricter conduct rules than the rest of UCSB students. Still, it’s another opportunity to take advantage of and can be a great part of your college experience if you choose to join.

Rush is also a good way to transition into college and to meet lots of people right away as a freshman. UCSB’s sororities have a rush program that is less strenuous than at other universities with very high Greek percentages. However, there is a fee to participate in the sorority rush process. There is currently no fee to rush fraternities. Overall, remember that students can make lots of friends and have social opportunities without going Greek.

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Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

I’m anti-Greek, but that’s just... I’m anti-Greek, but that’s just me. Unlike UCLA or a lot of other schools here, Greek life is totally optional. We have a lot of parties that are not Greek-sponsored. You don’t have to be in the Greek system. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Greek life in Santa Barbara is... Greek life in Santa Barbara is considerably laid-back, but it is thriving. If you find the right house for you, it can be a really incredible experience. My advice is to not write it off completely without checking it out. I met so many people rushing, and half of them never joined a house but still made friends and had a fun week. If you do join a house, make an effort to have friends outside the system, too. Overall, why not give it a chance and see if you like it? 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Greek life exists, but you can... Greek life exists, but you can avoid it (as I would recommend) and still have a social life. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

The Greek life is here, but it... The Greek life is here, but it does not take over the social scene at all. People don’t really have a need for it. There are tons of house parties here with free beer and stuff, so the Greek scene is small, but existent. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

There’s a fairly big Greek system,... There’s a fairly big Greek system, but it definitely doesn’t overwhelm. If you’re into that, you have lots of choices, but if you’re not into it, you won’t feel left out. 12345 Greek Life Report

Facts

Did You Know?

Each fraternity and sorority house puts on a philanthropic event that gives to some charity. It is a good way for house members to bond and give back to the community.

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Michael was on Bob Barker's sixth-to-last Price is Right show and won a trampoline.

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