With all the different types of fraternities on campus, not many people know the real truth behind business fraternities.

“There is a common misconception that business frats are nerdy people, but we’re not,” said Akhil Patel, senior in Business and Delta Sigma Pi member. “We have the professional aspect, but we also have social events and like to have fun.”

Business fraternities are an important part of Greek life at the University of Illinois. Like other fraternities and sororities on campus, they provide social and philanthropy events, but they also offer a professional aspect.

“We have three pillars: professionalism, philanthropy and social,” said Rae Hughes, senior in Business and member of Phi Gamma Nu. “We have social and philanthropy events throughout the year, as well as professional events, like mock interviews.”

Speakers from successful businesses also come to chapter meetings to talk to the members and give them advice.

“You really get to make connections with people from the fraternity, as well as the business professionals,” said Jamie Sullivan, junior in Media and Phi Chi Theta member.

Not only do business fraternities help students get ready for the working world, but they also help students to make the most out of their time in college.

“People think that we are all the time focused on business, but we do also have fun. Not only are the business events fun, but we also plan social events, like movie night, as well as philanthropy events,” said Sullivan.

Along with incorporating professional and social aspects, business fraternities also differ from much of the Greek community by being co-ed.

Hughes, Patel and Sullivan all said that one of the greatest benefits of being in a business fraternity is how it helps expand their professional network as well as make lifelong friends.

“We are really close; it’s almost like a family. We are also on the smaller end, so you get to know people more intimately and form stronger relationships with people,” said Sullivan.

Although business fraternities seem to be the best of both worlds, there are a few challenges.

“Rush isn’t that easy; it’s kind of like an interview. Once you’re in the frat, you get busy, especially the first month, but it is worth it,” said Hughes.

Patel added that with all the different events and meetings, it is a huge time commitment.

Another challenge of being in a business fraternity is the competition, said Sullivan. The members of the fraternity are taking most of the same classes, participating in many of the same activities, and competing for similar jobs.

“Everyone wants to be the best of the best, and sometimes it puts strains on relationships,” said Sullivan.

Although there are some challenges, the many pros outweigh the cons of joining a business frat.

“All frats offer something unique. An individual just needs to find what they like and where they fit,” said Patel.