University of Virginia - Greek Life

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Most students feel that Greek life dominates the social scene at UVA. Many are bitter about this and find it superficial, costly, obnoxious, and over-prevalent. Those involved in Greek life, however, love the people they have met and the relationships they have formed. All sorts of people are involved in the Greek scene, as well as in the non-Greek scene. Frat parties are open to everyone, but when you get to the door, it often comes down to who you know, which frustrates many people who aren't connected in the frat. There can be a lot of bitterness directed at Greek life in general, as some fraternities and sororities are unfortunately stereotyped as being snobby, superficial, and obnoxious. But, it's good to keep in mind that the stereotypes don't hold true for everyone in any given organization.

On the whole, Greek life only really dominates the campus if you want it to. Of course, fraternities and sororities are a big part of UVA; but keep in mind, this is not the Greek school it once was. At certain times of the academic year, it feels as if the whole school is doing the Greek thing—semi-formals, Foxfield horse races, football games, rush—but when you look closer, you’ll see that this is certainly not the case. There are plenty of other groups to join (literary magazines, a cappella groups, theatrical groups, athletic groups, and community service organizations). In any case, even if you don’t consider the Greek option, at least go to a frat party at some point—they really can be a fun time, or at least, an interesting experience.

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Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

Greek life is a big part of... Greek life is a big part of Virginia social life; however, I’m not Greek, and one doesn’t have to become Greek in order to have a good time. Make sure that if you want to go Greek that it is for you, because Greek life isn’t for everybody. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

It’s fairly big. I’m Greek, and I... It’s fairly big. I’m Greek, and I love it. A lot of my best friends aren’t, and they party all the time, so it’s not really important. There is a big Greek scene, but you can have just as much fun not being a part of it. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

Joining a sorority has been one of... Joining a sorority has been one of the best decisions of my life. However, I have many friends that are not in sororities or frats, and they love their social life. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

The Greek scene provides fun... The Greek scene provides fun alternatives to the bar scene, along with dancing. I am biased, though; I am in a frat and love it! I have fun at frat parties, and if you like to dance, they are usually the best and only bet. 12345 Greek Life Report

Anonymous says:

It does play a major role at the... It does play a major role at the University, but it does not overwhelm it. I should add that if you choose to be non-Greek, you are definitely still welcome at parties; they are not exclusive, and they are all free. 12345 Greek Life Report

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