As seniors begin making college decisions, many are thinking about campus life—including the realities of Greek life and hazing. Recent national incidents have raised concerns, prompting students and counselors here to take a closer look at how to stay informed and safe.
But what is college hazing? College hazing is a type of activity that is required for new members of a fraternity, sorority, or even a sports team. It can be humiliating, abusive, or even dangerous. The activities that are conducted may seem like harmless pranks but in reality they can cause serious misconduct violations which result in injury or death. The purpose of college hazing as a whole is intended to create a bond or a test commitment that often backfires by causing mistrust and doing harm.
The most recent case of college hazing is reported from Rutgers University. This was a part of the fraternity called “Alpha Sigma Phi” which a 19 year old from Manhattan participated in. However, they have been hospitalized and were in critical condition according to USA Today. Rutgers has also ordered a cease and desist order on the fraternity and will be under disciplinary probation as a whole. Officials also stated that the location of the fraternity has been condemned too due to the building being unsafe. According to Eye Witness News, the member who was in critical condition was also electrocuted due to water involvement. Almost all of the members had also been expelled due to being indirectly or directly involved
after they discovered the incident.
Other recent cases of college hazing have also been reported. This includes a recent case in the University of Houston involving a fraternity called “Pi Kappa Phi.” They’re being sued for $10 million dollars for alleged hazing according to Houston Public Media. Another case was with a college freshman attending UT Austin according to Fox 7 News. It involved an 18 year-old that was forced to do drugs, which drove the 18-year old into a psychological crisis. The fraternity was called “Sigma Chi.”
For seniors who are looking to pledge to a sorority or a fraternity at their respective colleges, Mr. Imperat
ore, Guidance Counselor at Indian Hills has given some key words of advice. He stated, “College is a time for exploration, but it is important to remember that joining a campus organization should never come at the expense of your comfort or well-being. If you are in a situation that conflicts with your values or makes you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and know that it is okay to walk away.”
Overall, Some organizations have violated conduct codes, but many chapters operate safely and legally. Almost every fraternity and sororities involve themselves with embarrassing acts, physical activities, or wearing crazy clothing. However there are also some that have alcohol and sometimes drugs according to Reuters. All to pledge their loyalty to the sorority or fraternity. However the thing about these things are extreme cases. While for other sororities and fraternities, they’re following
the guidelines. For example, others request that students do funny or stupid things in order to pledge their commitment to their fraternity/soroity. Colleges are now starting to crack down on it all, especially since these cases could tarnish their reputations if they continue.
