University of Iowa - Greek Life

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

There are strong ties between students in the Greek community at UI, but relations between Greeks and non-Greeks tend to be strained. Students in a fraternity or sorority generally love it and make their closest friends there. But, some go as far as refusing to mix with anyone not in the Greek system, which can create some awkward moments. Students who have never been involved with the Greeks or who left their fraternity or sorority tend to see the Greeks as stuck-up.

All of Greek life at UI is dry in an effort to curb underage drinking. This means that members often head out to bars together on weekends, making them a very social club. Pledging usually takes place a week or two before classes start, so as not to interfere with schoolwork. The Greeks do a great deal of community service, and their names can be found attached to many community activities, whether it is raising money to help the blind or organizing a dance marathon. These are definitely not the stereotypical Animal House fraternities and sororities. There’s no pressure to join the Greek scene at UI, and you won’t lose many opportunities for drinking or partying if you choose not to become involved. Many students involved in Greek life think that it is the best part of UI, while others say Greek life is like a cult and that members need to get out more and meet new people.

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Students Speak Out

IowASb says: University of Iowa 2015 Social Sciences

I didn't rush at first, but... I didn't rush at first, but informally did second semester, and I love it. I'm not the typical sorority girl but found a group that I really liked, and I get to hang out with them all the time. 12345 Greek Life: March 28, 2009 Report

IowGW says: University of Iowa 2015 Undecided

Some people love Greek life, and... Some people love Greek life, and others don't. It's really not a big deal if you join or not—you're guaranteed to make lots of friends no matter what. 12345 Greek Life: March 28, 2009 Report

Iownb says: University of Iowa 2015 Undecided

Greek life isn't all that... Greek life isn't all that important at Iowa. If you want automatic friends and things to do, it could be a good option for you, but it's not necessary at all to have a good time. 12345 Greek Life: February 18, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

Being a member of the Greek... Being a member of the Greek community myself, I’d say that Greek life at UI is awesome. It doesn’t dominate the scene, though, and it seems as if some of the campus looks down upon Greeks. It’s the best thing I did for myself when I came to college. Don’t listen to stereotypes—they’re not always true. I would definitely suggest at least going through recruitment; it’s really nice to have some familiar faces that first week of classes. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

I’m so not the sorority type, but... I’m so not the sorority type, but I tried it, and I can’t believe how awesome it really is! My friends who didn’t join regretted it, and now they all want to join next year. It truly is a great way to meet tons of people—including lots of boys—and help out around the community. At least check it out with an open mind! 12345 Greek Life Report

Facts

Most Recent Contributing Author

Name: Kelly McPhee
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Major: Journalism

Kelly changed her major six times freshman year.

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