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Frequently
Asked Questions about SigEp
We have compiled a few of the most frequentlty
asked questions which we get all of the time about our chapter and Sigma
Phi Epsilon.
What
about hazing?
Sigma Phi Epsilon advocates a four-year membership development program
that emphasizes continuous development throughout the undergraduate experience.
Unlike other fraternities, there is no pledging and no hazing. This program
is based on experiential learning, mentoring, community service, and brotherhood
activities. This establishes an environment where all members are treated
as equals. Sigma Phi Epsilon is the recipient of the Association of Fraternity
Advisors "Excellence in Education Programming" award. Read more
about SigEp's Balanced Man membership development program in our BMP
section. Other fraternities may say they do not haze, but SigEp puts
that notion into action.
How
much does it cost?
When a new member first joins Sigma Phi Epsilon, an initial fee of $220
is assessed. This is a "lifetime membership fee" that pays for
educational materials, pins, and fraternity mailings received for the
rest of your life. This intial $220 must be paid in full before you can
become a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. After that basic dues are only $290
per semester, and for new members this rate is prorated depending on the
time of joining which significantly decreases the cost. Our costs remain
the same for all members throughout the entire academic year - there are
no hidden costs. When all expenses are totaled we have the cheapest dues
out of any other major Greek Fraternity at Austin Peay. There is also
the option to live in the chapter house at 218 S. 7th Street other than
in the residence halls or any off-campus apartment. Rent is ONLY $225
per month, and the chapter pays all utlity costs! This is much cheaper
than any other living arrangements on campus and off.
How will SigEp impact my grades?
Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the
highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college.
Sigma Phi Epsilon assists by offering scholarship programs which may include
study partners, mentors, study hours, and time management workshops. You
can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use
campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs,
and academic advisors. While Sigma Phi Epsilon is concerned about the
academic achievement of our members, each member is still ultimately responsible
for utilizing the resources made available. Read more about SigEp's academic
programming and results in our academic section.
How much time is required?
The minimum time requirement is roughly three hours per week. This consists
of a weekly chapter meeting, a weekly development challenge meeting, and
a weekly fraternity committee meeting, where you can have input on how
the fraternity is run in a small-group setting. Remember, however, that
participating in any worthwhile activity takes time. Research has shown
that involved college students are more likely to graduate, and they report
greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through fraternity
involvement, you will learn how to balance academic work, campus involvement,
and social commitments. Other activities can include intramural sports,
social events, and additional leadership involvement, just to name a few.
What is alcohol like in SigEp?
Sigma Phi Epsilon believes that the ability to maturely handle alcohol
is a skill that our members need to learn. Alcohol abuse is unhealthy
and inconsistent with the ideals of our fraternity. To prevent alcohol
abuse, many of our chapter members arerequired to be trained in the TIPS
alcohol intervention program. The fraternity also sponsors many events,
such as intramural sports, recruitment events, and sorority exchanges
that are always alcohol free. We are also the first and only Fraternity
at Austin Peay to officially declare a "Dry House" which means
no alcohol is permitted on the SigEp House property at any time. Nearly
1/4 of our members choose to not drink at all - and in SigEp, they will
never be forced to.
Who is in charge of SigEp?
Undergraduate fraternity members manage the day-to-day operations of the
chapter. These men are assisted by their fellow members, a local alumnus
who serves as chapter counselor, and a group of alumni and volunteers
who meet regularly as an alumni board. Frequently, parents of chapter
members serve as volunteers as well. Sigma Phi Epsilon offers support,
advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers.
Our chapters and alumni provide Sigma Phi Epsilon the strength and resources
to support our undergraduate brothers. Professional staff from the college
and university are also available to assist and monitor the activities
of all fraternities.
Have
any other questions?
Think another question should be added to this list?
Feel free to fill out and send our on-line Interest
Form. |
