CU Nooz’s Guide to Fraternity Rush

Rush week, the week preceding each spring semester used for Greek organization formal recruitment, can be a tricky time for potential new members. Unfamiliar terms like “smokers,” “contacts,” and “bids” are thrown around while meeting an influx of new people. It’s best to be as prepared as possible for a decision that can affect the rest of a freshman’s social career while at school.

Dress to impress. Stilts will make you look taller and your ability to walk in them will impress fraternity brothers.

A great way to find common interests with brothers is to agree with everything they say.

Play hard to get and don’t spend more than 30 seconds at any house.

Take meticulous notes. Many fraternities’ bids are conditional on passing an oral or written exam.

Bring your resume for brothers to reference while considering you for a bid.

Do not be in your room during contacts. Leave a note that you are mountain biking or partying with the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Remind brothers to tell you that they have great food, they mix with every sorority, and everyone gets a single.

Only speak in the form of a question.

Sometimes a frat will politely ask you to stop coming to their smokers, explaining that they don’t think you’re a good fit for their house. This is a test. Keep returning to all events to prove you would be a dedicated brother.

Don’t take the nametags lightly. You will judged on creativity, clarity, and content.

Drinking is a big part of some houses’ cultures. Don’t forget your copy of Kevin Zraly’s Complete Wine Course. You don’t want to embarrass yourself by confusing a Chile Pinot Noir for a New Zealand Pinot Noir.