Welcoming • Members of Phi Kappa Tau are all smiles during an event to welcome their new potential brothers. • Phi Kappa Tau

 

Phi Kappa Tau welcomes potential brothers

By Janelle Aviado
Daily Forty-Niner
Contributing Writer

Phi Kappa Tau held its last social gathering Thursday, Sept. 16 to welcome potential brothers into its fraternity before announcing its final decisions the following night. The gathering was held on campus at the student union from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., where the associates, current brothers and alumni of the fraternity enjoyed burritos and bowling.

This particular semester held special significance in that all rushing members rushed as an entire Greek system. As a result, fraternity numbers increased. Gatherings and social events give both current affiliates and potential members a chance to market themselves as well as get to know each other.

"The guys of Phi Kappa Tau have been really cool, welcoming and always have a good vibe," said sophomore Ryan Michels, a potential member. "Having the chance to be part of such a great organization and brotherhood will further my college experience. I look forward to meeting many different people."

Despite busy schedules between work, school and the fraternity, the current brothers of Phi Kappa Tau were all smiles preparing for each event the fraternity hosted during rush week. Members are encouraged to attend all events, which are typically five hours long.

In addition to hosting social events, the brothers of Phi Kappa Tau have educated prospective members of their duties to give back to the community. Each semester the fraternity contributes its time and money to Hole in the Wall Gang, a non-profit organization for kids with chronic illnesses, founded by fraternity alumnus Paul Newman. During winter, brothers help at the camp, located in Valencia, Calif., where they plant trees and help the kids.

"It's a very moving experience giving the kids a chance to get away from their personal struggles," said Joe Baclig, member of Phi Kappa Tau and the Inter-Fraternity Council. ""We make sure our associates are aware of this responsibility before they commit to our organization."

Phi Kappa Tau generally accepts 10 to 15 new members each semester. After becoming a brother, associates begin an eight-week process, which includes bonding activities with the fraternity, a membership orientation program and educating the new members on how to become part of brotherhood in the Greek system. Brothers of the organization reach out to associates seeking to become members and embrace their welcoming attitude of the Greek brotherhood.

Prospective associates will be invited to Phi Kappa Tau's preference dinner where they will be welcomed as new associates and prepare for fulfilling roles of brothers in the Greek system.