On the first week back, many freshmen are preoccupied with the challenge of finding their classes, meeting new friends and, for those thinking about going Greek, experiencing the fraternity and sorority “rush” process.

Fraternities usually host informal events in the first few weeks for prospective men interested in joining a house, where they get to know the brothers and get a feel for Greek life, said Eric Chapman, junior in Business and president of Zeta Beta Tau.

“We usually have a couple of low-key events, such as BBQs or basketball games, especially with the nice weather,” Chapman said. “It’s a great way to see how we spend our free time and hang out with us.”

Sorority formal recruitment begins on Sept. 9 and runs throughout the weekend. The following weekend ends with Bid Night on Sept. 19. Though it is still a few weeks away, many sororities have already been preparing for the rush season this week. Known as “work week,” the days before classes begin are designated for learning songs and chants and practicing for the actual event to impress the women going through rush.

“We usually have a song during each round, and Open House is probably the most nerve-wracking for most women going to each house,” said Julia Magers, senior in Nursing and member of Delta Delta Delta. “When I was a freshman, I was a little overwhelmed with the whole process because there are so many houses and all the girls were so nice.”

Compared to the average University student, Greek members have a higher grade-point average and also gain worthwhile experiences that come with being a part of a brotherhood or sisterhood, according to the Fraternity and Sorority Affairs website.

“Fraternities and sororities offer the best experience,” said Andrew Hohn, assistant director for Fraternity and Sorority Affairs. “We create well-rounded leaders who serve the community and teach social responsibility. It makes this large campus feel smaller and more manageable.”

Among the Black Greek, Interfraternity, United Greek and Panhellenic Councils, there are 98 chapters, including 25 sororities and 45 fraternities. With more than 6,700 students involved in the Greek community, formal recruitment can leave those rushing nervous and unsure of what to expect.

“The most important thing when going through rush, whether you’re joining a sorority or fraternity, is to just be yourself,” said Magers. “I’m from a small town about an hour south of Champaign, and I thought most people going through rush knew each other, but it turns out that most girls going through recruitment are trying to fit in too and shouldn’t be intimidated by the experience. It’s important to make the girls feel as comfortable as possible.”

As a member of Delta Delta Delta, Magers said she and her sisters decorate the house with pictures for socials, sisterhoods and philanthropy events so that the girls know what each sorority is like.

However, if one experience doesn’t go smoothly, Magers said women should still go through the process.

“Even if you haven’t had the greatest conversation with one of the sisters during a round, if you love the house from past invites, you shouldn’t rule out that specific house.”

Women going through recruitment should not have their hearts set on a certain house, she said.

“Go in with an open mind and just be yourself,” she said. “You will find the place where you belong and call home for the next chapter in your life.”