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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Greek Life at University of Virginia
B
Greek Life Is Prevalent
There is a large emphasis on greek life, especially as a first year when it seems like everyone is rushing, however after the first year whether you're involved at all in greek life is completely up to you. I never wanted to enter the greek life and I have friends both in and out of it. None of them care that I am not greek. Frat parties are ok to visit sometimes but there are multiple other parties to join in on if you want to stay away from the fratmosphere.
May 08, 2012
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Greek Life at University of Virginia
A+
what you make it
I'm a first year here and at UVa we do formal rush in spring. This is beneficial because we get time to adapt to school without being in a frat or srat and people tend to get involved in a lot of other things. This way when those who choose to go greek do, they still keep up with other activities. I joined a sorority this semester and am really glad I did. During the spring greek life is more prominent than in the fall because of all of the philanthropies going on. Overall I would say the greek scene isn't exclusive: I hang out with just as many greeks as non greeks. If you want it to be your social life it can be but I got involved with other things too which has enriched my experience here :)
May 07, 2012
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Greek Life at University of Virginia
A
Greek Life
If you want to get involved in Greek life, it differs for boys and girls. Girls have a pretty easy pledging process while boys have a lot of time they have to dedicate and their grades will likely drop. You can go to parties if you are not an active member in Greek life and most of the parties are free and you meet plenty of people that can get you into the parties.
Apr 13, 2012
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User rating for University of Virginia - Greek Life is
3.5 out of 5
based on 31 user reviews.
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