A UK Society?

[Geoffrey Hinkley]

Alright this is going to come across as a little radical. I have been, for a while now, a great admirer of the American Fraternities/Sororities. I feel that they offer young people taking their first steps in an increasingly hectic and cutthroat world an unparallelled opportunity to build a network of friends and contacts that serve and support them well for the rest of their lives.

I am currently studying at the Universtiy of Warwick in the United Kingdom. Here in the United Kingdom, even at Ivy League universities like Warwick, we have nothing similar to the American Greek letter societies.

Basically, the purpose of this post is to solicit advice or support either in establishing such a society or (which I suspect is more likely) to set up a branch of an existing society.

In any case, any suggestions, support or even just kind rds would be most welcomed.

[PenguinTrax]

My suggestion to you would be to research the 60+ National Interfraternity Conference fraternities and select 4-6 whose ideals, etc. appeal to you. Then, contact these organizations and see if any would be interested in colonizing in the UK. Many NIC groups are represented in Canada, so there is already a precedent for international expansion. Also, make sure your university has no problem with the establishment of this type of organization - some NIC groups require University recognition. Visit: http://www.nicindy.org



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Fraternally,
Barbara
Zeta Tau Alpha Alumna

If you have to go around telling everyone you're in charge you're not much of a leader.

[BSUPhiSig'92]

I think it is great that you want to start a fraternity in the UK! As a university greek advisor I can tell you there is a lot of research that you need to do. First of all, find out if your university recognizes student organizations and what the requirements for recognition would be. Establishing a chapter in the UK would be a major endeavour for any NIC organization and would require a significant investment of time and money. They will want assurances of success prior to making that investment. If the university would be antagonistic to the establishment of a fraternity, chances are good that an NIC organization would opt not to form a chapter. Second, be prepared to have to do some serious education for your peers, university administrators, etc. on just what greek life truly means. Most of your countrymen probably have very limited exposure if any. Expect "Animal House" or some god-awful made for t.v. movie to be about the extent of exposure. (I've been to the UK and have seen some of our worst programs on the BBC!) Finally, be prepared to have to address and research the inevitable questions on liability, freedom of association, etc. etc. etc. in regards to British law. It will not be an easy or rapid process, but I wish you the very best of luck. I think it would truly be a magnificent thing if we could make greek life an international experience. Plus what awesome road trips!

[mgdzkm433]

I would suggest researching international sororities and fraternities. I am a member of the largest international sorority in the world. It is so interesting to speak and hear about other sisters from around the world.