Moses Menchaca is Fresno State’s Associated Students, Inc. president and is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.­

Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic recruitment for fraternities and sororities starts tomorrow. Students are split into three categories about Greek life: Joining, not joining, or might join. I was in the “not joining” category my first 4 years at Fresno State. I would say: “I don’t want to pay for friends,” “That’s not my scene,” “All they do is party,” and “I’m too busy.”

After meeting Greek student leaders, my misperceptions changed. After joining a fraternity, I’ve found that these speculations are opposite from the truth.

My Greek life experiences are all with Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE), but these experiences are similar to most fraternities and sororities.

Brotherhood/Sisterhood

In college, I’ve missed the camaraderie and friendships I made while being on the football team in high school. Joining a fraternity has provided that same level of camaraderie.

I now have brothers that support and encourage me and vice-a-versa. The tight-knit bond that you share with your brothers/sisters is unexplainable and something that you have to experience to fully understand. This is a great way to meet people, especially if you are not from the area.

Community Service and Philanthropy

Fraternities and sororities contribute more community service hours and raise more money than many other student clubs. Greek organizations host different philanthropic events to raise money for charities. They raise more money, collect more cans, and gather more clothes than any other clubs on campus. If you want to give back to the surrounding communities or want to help those in need, going Greek is a great step in making a difference in the lives of others.

Networking

Students usually join organizations within their major to network. I have done more networking through my fraternity than almost any other organization I have been apart of. Brotherhood and sisterhood extends beyond Fresno State, and many industry leaders are looking for fellow Greeks for internships and jobs.

I have been welcomed by brothers from as far north as Chico and as far south as Fullerton. ­By joining a fraternity or sorority, you are connected to thousands of members that want to help you because you share a similar affiliation and tradition.

Down Time

In college, I have been president of different organizations and highly involved academically. As Associated Students, Inc. student body president, I always have something to do or somewhere to be. Joining PIKE has served as a break from my hectic schedule.

It has given me time to relax and enjoy being a student. I get to hang out with brothers, sit around and play Madden, and go out and do things with them. I highly encourage any student to consider rushing; whether it’s your first semester or your last year.

I hope you all consider attending rush events this week. Check out www.fresnostate.edu/greeklife and read more about it and sign up to participate.

IFC Recruitment Chair, Ralph Ruiz, says, “My favorite thing about being Greek is the brotherhood, lifelong memories, and friends I have gained.” I hope you all consider rushing while at Fresno State!