Sorority rush can be an intimidating experience for the hundreds of girls who choose to take part in the process.
That anxiety is often intensified for upperclassmen participants, who typically have a more difficult time getting bids.
But Panhellenic Council President Lindsey Stephens said a new quota system should make the process much more inviting for sophomores and juniors.
“In the past, we have had to choose between upperclassmen and first-year students,” Stephens said.
She said by sacrificing a freshman’s bid, the sorority would also be giving up a year of dues.
“We also run the risk of bringing in a new girl who might not be able to fit in with the girls from her pledge class,” Stephens said. “These girls have already spent at least a year together so we don’t usually give bids to upperclassmen unless they already have friends in the sorority.”
In the past, each sorority has had to divide its bids between all potential members. This year, the houses will be given a separate quota, different for each house, for freshmen and upperclassmen pledges.
The University affairs committee of the Board of Trustees began a review of the Greek system last fall. The issue of upperclassmen acceptance in sororities surfaced in meetings.
Morgan Maples, the Panhellenic recruitment chairwoman, said the new policies have been effective in creating a more welcoming environment for upperclassmen.
