Expectations of Sorority Members at the University of Alabama

Behavioral Standards – Each chapter has specific standards for member behavior.  These standards include abiding by all national, state, and local laws, as well as UA and chapter policies. Standards also include fulfilling financial obligations on time, as well as any policy on living in the chapter house.  

Academics – All sororities at the University of Alabama have high academic standards and expect members to achieve their academic potential. Chapters may offer mentorship, peer tutoring, and study hours. Studying completed in a proctored environment may be required based on academic achievement, and the average number of study hours among the Panhellenic chapters is 5.5 per week.Typically, most students find that they will need two hours outside of the classroom for every one hour spent in the classroom each week to prepare for and do well in their academic coursework.  

Meetings – New members are required to attend one chapter meeting and one new member meeting per week.  While these two meetings may vary in length from week to week, the average number of hours spent in meetings held by Panhellenic chapters is 1-2 hours each per week depending on the items on the agenda. 

Participation Requirements – Members are required to participate in philanthropy events, community service, recruitment, homecoming, and other campus events.  They are encouraged to participate in sisterhood and social events.  These events may not occur every week, but members are expected to attend.  The average number of philanthropy and community service events held by Panhellenic chapters is 1 per month. Members are also expected to be back on campus at least 1 week prior to the start of primary recruitment each fall. 

Being a member of a sorority offers many benefits and the opportunity for personal growth and development, and these opportunities are paired with expectations that all members will actively contribute to the activities of the chapter and uphold high standards, core values, and ideals of sisterhood.

Expectations of New Members at the University of Alabama

Active participation – As a new member, you will need to attend new member meetings and chapter meetings. You will also be encouraged to participate in Greek or Campus-wide events such as Homecoming. These events are not only fun, but provide an opportunity for you to meet other members of the Greek community!

Panhellenic Events – APA encourages new members to attend various educational events during the year. These events address relevant issues students face today and will help with their transition into college and Greek life.

Philanthropy Events – Each chapter enjoys serving its national and local philanthropy. Philanthropy events promote unity within the chapter and the Greek community while helping a worthwhile cause.

Recruitment Events – In the spring, chapters host recruitment workshops to help their members prepare for next year’s Fall Primary Recruitment. As a new member, you will have the opportunity to attend these events.

Study Hall/Hours – Each chapter requires a certain number of study hall hours to be completed each week during your first semester at UA. Sororities also implement many educational programs to assist members in their academic pursuits.