Parents' Frequenty Asked Questions

For your son, making the transition from high school to the University of Arkansas may seem like an imposing challenge. One or more of the following questions may be on his mind:

• Will I succeed academically?
• Will I have fun and meet girls?
• Will I be able to get involved in sports?
• Will I meet people with similar interest?
• How can I best prepare for my career?

Fraternities exist as a proven support network for your son as he embarks on this new period in his life. The Arkansas Alpha Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon will help personalize your son's college experience by:

• A scholastic support system.
• A healthy social environment.
• Practicing leadership and financial management.
• Contact with alumni in the community.
• Involvement in serving others.
• A family-like support system.

With all these opportunities available to them, it is no wonder that fraternity members tend to graduate from college at a higher rate than those men not involved in fraternities.

 

Questions --

As a parent, you are undoubtedly concerned about your son's college experience and the choices he will make. This brochure is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about fraternity membership and Sigma Phi Epsilon.

 

I'm concerned about my son's grades--what impact would fraternity membership have?

Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Arkansas Alpha members are in almost every major in the Colleges of Business, Communication, Education, Engineering, Liberal Arts, Natural Sciences, and Architecture. As such, they can act as mentors to new members. The chapter also has new member study hours and defrays the cost of tutors. Your son can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use campus resources like the U of A General Libraries, Enhanced Learning Center, the computer labs, and academic advisors.

 

What about hazing?

Sigma Phi Epsilon advocates a four-year membership development program that emphasizes continuous development throughout the undergraduate experience. University Policy and State Law prohibits hazing of members.

 

Who is actually in charge of the Fraternity?

Undergraduate fraternity members manage the day-to-day operations of the chapter. These men are assisted by their fellow members, the Arkansas Alpha Alumni Board and the Office of Greek Life and Education at the University of Arkansas.

Sigma Phi Epsilon National Headquarters offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers.

 

Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?

As almost any Texas Alpha alumni will attest, the short term cost of dues is offset by the lifelong benefits of membership. Arkansas Alpha dues are set each semester.

 

Does being in a fraternity take a lot of time?

Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate, and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his fraternity involvement, your son will learn how to balance his academic work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

 

How does my son go about joining Sigma Phi Epsilon?

Arkansas Alpha traditionally conducts recruitment primarily during the summer. During this time your son has an opportunity to meet undergraduate members and learn what Sigma Phi Epsilon has to offer.   However, Year round recruitment has become a major part of our chapter.