Women’s fraternities and sororities began forming as more women entered higher education.
Inspired by the close-knit communities that men’s fraternities created, women sought similar spaces for support and connection. Now, over 100 years later, 48.9% of Oregon State University’s population is women, and about 4% of those participate in Greek life.
So why do they hold the reputation of selectivity and snobbery? And is there any basis to such accusations?
The beginnings of OSU Greek life date all the way back to 1905, but it would be 10 years until the first national sorority, Alpha Chi Omega-chi, would be introduced here at OSU.
As sororities were introduced, universities were a difficult place for women. They were faced with disrespect and many hardships. With the need for a safe space where these women could find a welcoming community, sororities began to boom in popularity.
During the early years of sororities at OSU, being a part of a sorority was a very sought after position, with many women excitedly pledging and being expected to pledge.
Sororities focused on community, philanthropy and preparing for the future. They held events such as formals, dinners, mothers day events and socials with other greek houses.
As sororities became well known, they would be featured in movies and other media such as the beloved “Legally Blonde” (2001) which showed sororities in a generally positive light as a loving supportive space, if not a little ditzy. Or “Sorority Wars” (2009) which portrayed Greek life in a much harsher manner.
“Going into college I was like, no, I don’t want to join a sorority that’s not for me. I’m a little scared of that,” said Alexa Sullivan, a third year Sigma Delta Omega member at OSU.
Sullivan said her sorority experience has been nothing like the stereotypes. She highlighted the academic and emotional support she’s received, including organized study hours, textbook lending, and tutoring programs.
Sidney Liles, a 3rd year member in Sigma Alpha, also spoke about her sorority experiences.
“I think people automatically go to like what they see in movies, that it’s just mean girls, clique-y, that you have to party… But honestly, that’s not what Oregon State Greek life is at all.”
Liles also commented on the general public’s worries when it comes to inclusivity and diversity.
“A lot of sororities have changed, like, their national bylaws to be more inclusive and welcome all identities, which is really amazing,” Liles said.
“Transparency is the best thing in the world we live in now, and so just letting them know, like we are keeping up with the times,” Liles said.
When reflecting on how Greek life has shaped her experience, Sullivan said, “I didn’t really know anyone, and then I joined SDO, and I met some of my best friends who I now live with.”
