For your son, making the transition from high school or a community college to a four-year college or university may seem like an imposing challenge. One or more of the following questions may be on his mind:

         1. Will I fit in and make new friends?
         2. Will I succeed academically?
         3.Will I be able to get involved in campus organizations and better my leadership skills?
         4.Will I find other people interested in the same things that I am?
         5. How can I best prepare for my career?
         6.Will I feel like a part of the community or just another number?
         7. Fraternities exist as a proven support network for your son as
             he embarks on this new period in his life.As a parent, you are
             undoubtedly concerned  about  your son's college experience and the choices he will make.

This brochure is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about fraternity membership and Sigma Phi Epsilon.

• A scholastic support system.
• Practicing leadership.
• Practical financial management.
• Faculty interaction.
• Contact with alumni in the community.
• Involvement in serving others.
• A family-like support system.
• Develop interpersonal skills.As a parent, you are undoubtedly concerned about your son's college experience and the choices he will make. This brochure is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about fraternity membership and Sigma Phi Epsilon.

Aren't fraternities just like the one shown in the movie "Animal House?"
Unfortunately, after the showing of that movie, fraternity members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible and abusive. In reality, fraternities are value-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships. The following code of ethics represents some of the basic expectations of fraternal membership:

Basic Expectations

"I will strive for academic achievement and practice academic integrity."

"I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally, psychologically or sexually abuse or haze any human being."

"I will respect my property and the property of the others; therefore, I will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property."

"I will neither use nor support the use of illegal drugs."

"I will neither misuse nor support the misuse of alcohol."

"I acknowledge that a clean and attractive environment is essential to both physical and mental health; therefore, I will do all in my power to see that the chapter property is properly cleaned and maintained."

"I will challenge all my fraternity members to abide by these fraternal expectations and will confront those who violate them."

Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with fraternal ideals. All chapters are expected to uphold state, county, and city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.

In Sigma Phi Epsilon, members are educated on the issues of alcohol and drug abuse throughout their membership experience. You'll find fraternity members participating in alcohol-free social activities such as moonlight bowling, dinner exchanges, and lip sync contests. Students who choose not to drink will know that it's okay and feel comfortable with their decision.

Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Sigma Phi Epsilon assists by offering scholarship programs which may include study partners, mentors, study hours, and time management workshops. Your son can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors.

While Sigma Phi Epsilon is concerned about the academic achievement of our members, your son is still ultimately responsible for utilizing the resources made available.

Sigma Phi Epsilon advocates a four-year membership development program that emphasizes continuous development throughout the undergraduate experience. This program is based on experiential learning, mentoring, community service, and brotherhood activities. This establishes an environment where all members are treated as equals. Sigma Phi Epsilon is the recipient of the Association of Fraternity Advisors "Excellence in Education Programming" award.

Undergraduate fraternity members manage the day-to-day operations of the chapter. These men are assisted by their fellow members, a local alumnus who serves as chapter counselor, and a group of volunteers who meet regularly as an alumni board. Frequently, parents such as you serve as volunteers as well.

Sigma Phi Epsilon offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Our chapters and alumni provide Sigma Phi Epsilon the strength and resources to support our undergraduate brothers. Professional staff from the college and university are also available to assist and monitor the activities of fraternities.

In the first year of membership, a one-time, lifetime membership fee is assessed. After this fee is paid, your son's only expense will be his regular dues. If housing is offered, fraternity lodging and meals are competitive with other housing options. A variety of payment plans is usually offered. Scholarships and loans are offered through the Sigma Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation.

• He'll have a group of supportive friends to help him make the adjustment to college and be his friends for life.
• He'll be offered scholastic resources to help him achieve his academic goals.
• He'll be taught leadership skills and offered hands-on opportunities to practice those skills.
• He'll be encouraged to get involved in the campus and the community and exercise his fullest potential.
• He'll be taught the importance of giving of oneself through active participation in community service projects.
• He'll be exposed to career opportunities through interaction with fraternity alumni.
• He'll enhance those "people skills" so essential to happy, productive living.

     Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate, and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his fraternity involvement, your son will learn how to balance his academic work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Sigma Phi Epsilon chapters participate in a process known as membership recruitment. Your son has an opportunity to meet undergraduate members and learn what Sigma Phi Epsilon has to offer.

Everyone likes to belong; to feel a part of something. Each Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter has its own unique programs and strengths, yet each is primarily based on the development of the "balanced man." Balance suggests that college provides a rich environment to learn, grow, challenge, and self-manage... most of all, a stepping point to adult life.

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son as he meets people through the recruitment process. Once your son joins, you will have the opportunity to participate in chapter and campus programs, and if you choose, be active on the alumni board or as a member of a parents' club. To become involved as a volunteer at your son's chapter or another local chapter, please contact:

Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Headquarters
Zollinger House
P.O. Box 1901
Richmond, Virginia 23218
(804) 353-1901