College Fraternities :: essays research papers

College FraternitiesCollege fraternities have always struck me as being an organization ofguys who spend their date drinking beer and having their "social gatherings"(parties). Just moving to Austin recently (which is by no doubt a "collegecity") has made me want to know much about the sole purpose of thesefraternities. For these reasons I chose to select this culture for my essay.     The definition of a fraternity is defined as " chiefly socialorganization of virile college students, usually designated by Greek letters".(Morris 1982523) This definition is not true to all where most fraternitymembers are seen as drunks who accomplish nothing scholastically or socially .Unfortunately, the definition and portrayal of the people fails to mention thefact that membership in a fraternity is a life-long experience that helps itsmembers develop social, organizational, and claim skills, and also teaches true,everlasting companionship. As a ma tter of fact most of our presidents weremembers of a Greek organization."The first fraternity was founded for literary and social purposes atThe College of William and bloody shame in Williamsburg, Virginia on December 5th 1776."(Klepper 193724) Throughout the nineteenth carbon many new fraternities werefounded, but none of these were permanent. By the end of the nineteenth centurythere were over thirty general fraternities in the country.Todays fraternities still have the characteristics of past fraternities.These characteristics include "a ritual, oaths of fidelity, a grip, a motto, abadge , friendship and comradeship (Klepper 193756) . During membership onemust learn leadership skills. For this reason fraternities embrace theseoffices held by members President, Vice-president, Treasurer, Scribe, etc.Since membership is seen as a great motion by other organizations, eachbrother must be able to uphold that office at any time.     Organization is a must for every member. Fund raising activities andcommunity service are priority in every chapter, and each member is requiredto take part in these activities as an act of pledge, and a brother. Thishelps a member to develop organization and planning. Living together in what isknown as a fraternity house adds to the maturement of social skills and beingable to live with different kinds of people in different situations.Fraternities are famous for their social gatherings (parties) which requiresall members to be socially lively and also develop social skills.     It is normal for fraternities to organize study groups during the schoolyear and before exams. Most fraternities keep test files and other study supportavailable for the benefit of their members. A lot of members are able toreceive scholarships and awards based on academic excellence, leadership and