Sacramento State students are familiar with the sorority and fraternity booths that take over the quad during Rush Week. Many walk past them at a quick pace without making any eye contact with members, hoping to avoid the question they’ve been asked time and time again.

“Have you ever thought about going greek?”

Often when students hear the term “greek life” they are overwhelmed with thoughts of partying, sex, drugs and hazing. With the way fraternities and sororities are portrayed in media coverage of hazing deaths, it’s no wonder greek life has such a negative reputation. Students are so busy focusing on the stigma that comes with greek life, they don’t consider the benefits it can bring.

Joining a sorority or fraternity opens doors for students in both academic and social aspects. According to Nicole Glass of USA Today, “graduation rates are 20 percent higher among greeks than non-greeks.”

Greek life provides networking opportunities, a chance to build a resume and establish academic support. Most importantly, it provides a home away from home, something that most incoming freshmen look for since it is their first time moving out on their own.

Some of the most successful people became involved in greek life during their college years, a decision that later proved to be a beneficial one. Notable greeks, according to their respective national websites, include Katie Couric of Delta Delta Delta, Condoleezza Rice of Alpha Chi Omega, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Armando Salud, a member of Sigma Delta Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a Sac State alumnus, has been involved in his organization for six and a half years. He can attest to how his experiences in his fraternity prepared him for life after graduation.

“It taught me how to be professional,” said Salud. “The difference between business versus fun.”

Salud currently works for the Sacramento County Elections Office, where he applies the skills he learned during his time as a member of Sigma Delta Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

“Thanks to my organization I was more than prepared for the real world,” said Salud.

College is a time for students to grow and figure out what kind of person they want to become. Becoming part of the greek system can help you unveil your hidden talents.

Not all greek organizations are not the same; there is something out there for everyone. Students just have to keep an open mind, do their research, and find something that suits their needs.

Next time a student walks down Greek Row, they should not feel intimidated. At some point, all members expressed the same concerns about the stereotypes surrounding greek life. Next time someone hands you a recruitment flyer, take it. It may end up being one of the best decisions you make.