IFC Recruitment Guide by Troy University

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

Fraternities, both at TROY and worldwide, thrive when their members live by the core values set by their founders many years ago. The men of Alpha Tau Omega, Delta Chi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, FarmHouse, Lambda Chi Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi and Tau Kappa Epsilon choose fraternity life for the brotherhood it offers. If you’re wondering why fraternity life is worth it, it’s because many fraternities teach the value of lifelong relationships, professional development, leadership, academics, social opportunities and philanthropy.

The Interfraternity Council at Troy University serves as the governing body for nine inter/national men’s fraternities. IFC promotes leadership, scholarship, service and brotherhood through philanthropy, campus involvement, recruitment and community initiatives that strengthen both the fraternity experience and the Trojan community.

Membership in an IFC fraternity is open to enrolled undergraduate men who complete the recruitment process and meet University and chapter academic standards. By joining, students commit to personal growth, academic success and the values of leadership, service, scholarship and brotherhood while making a positive impact on campus.

KEY TERMS

IFC (Interfraternity Council): Governing body for fraternities

Chapter: Campus branch of a fraternity

New Member (NM): Accepted bid, not initiated

Active Member: Fully initiated brother

Initiation: Ceremony to become a full member

Recruitment: Process of joining a fraternity

Formal Recruitment: Structured, multi-day recruitment

Hazing: Illegal, harmful and prohibited initiation practices

Brotherhood: Lifelong member bond

Philanthropy: Charity/service events

Social: Organized social events

PNM (Potential New Member): Student going through recruitment

Legacy: PNM with family in a fraternity

Bid: Invitation to join a fraternity

COB (Continuous Open Bidding): Informal recruitment after formal

RECRUITMENT

Joining a fraternity at Troy University Interfraternity Council is a simple and welcoming process. Throughout the summer, many fraternities host events that give potential new members the chance to meet brothers in a relaxed setting. Activities may include trips, sporting events or social gatherings designed to help students learn more about each chapter and build connections.

Fall Fraternity Recruitment begins during the first two weeks of the semester with informal events hosted along Fraternity Row. Students are encouraged to attend these events, meet members from each fraternity and learn more about chapter opportunities. Recruitment schedules and event information are typically shared through fraternity and IFC social media channels, and no invitation is required to participate.

Fraternity Recruitment registration is quick, easy and free. Registering simply lets fraternities know you are interested and does not obligate you to join or pledge a chapter.

To be eligible for membership, first-time freshmen must have a minimum 2.5 high school GPA. Transfer and returning Troy University students must have a minimum 2.5 college GPA. Fraternity Recruitment registration opens annually on May 1.

LEADERSHIP

Fraternity leadership positions provide valuable hands-on experience that helps members grow personally and professionally. Serving as an officer strengthens communication, teamwork, organization and problem-solving skills while preparing students for success beyond college.

PHILANTHROPY

Troy University fraternity members actively support philanthropic causes through fundraising events, awareness campaigns and community service initiatives. Chapters work closely with their national organizations while also giving back to the local community through volunteer efforts and campus involvement.

BROTHERHOOD

Joining a fraternity means becoming part of a lifelong brotherhood built on support, accountability, friendship and shared values. Members encourage one another academically, socially and personally while creating meaningful relationships that extend far beyond college.

FRATERNITY HOUSING

Troy University completed the Fraternity Village project in 2010, featuring seven fraternity houses designed to foster community and chapter involvement. Each house includes living accommodations, chapter rooms, social spaces, laundry facilities and shared amenities for members.

FINANCIAL COMMITMENT

Before joining a fraternity, students should understand the financial responsibilities associated with membership, including dues and fees. Costs vary by organization, so potential members are encouraged to discuss payment options and expectations during recruitment.

TIME COMMITMENT

New members participate in an educational program that can last up to 10 weeks, depending on the chapter. During this time, members learn fraternity values, leadership skills and traditions while building strong relationships within the organization.

HAZING POLICY

The IFC at Troy University strictly prohibits hazing in all forms. Hazing includes any activity that causes physical or mental discomfort, embarrassment or harm. Educational programs and policies are in place to promote a safe, respectful and positive membership experience.

POST-COLLEGE SUCCESS

Fraternity membership provides opportunities for leadership development, networking, service and personal growth that can benefit members long after graduation. Many fraternity alumni go on to successful careers while maintaining lifelong professional and personal connections.