Don't wanna "Go Greek"?
Then Be Social!
At St. Norbert College, there are many student organizations and groups to choose from, including both Greek Life (sororities and fraternities) and Independent Social Groups (sometimes referred to as "Social Groups"). Although these two types of organizations are similar in some ways, they both have their own unique aspects. Just to clear it all up, here are some basics about these SNC societies:
About
What is a Social Group?
Social Groups are unique to St. Norbert College and therefore have no national affiliation, as is the case with many sororities and fraternities. If you join a social group at SNC, such as the Untouchables, any other Untouchable that you meet will have attended St. Norbert at some point. Although one might think this would take away a widespread sense of community, it actually builds stronger feeling of pride for one's alma mater and a greater bond with the school's alumni. This bond is especially helpful as far as networking is concerned, in the post-grad years. Also, being outside the "Greek system," Social Groups do not have to adhere to any national rule system, and create their own constitutions and traditions, right here at SNC!
How much do they cost?
Since Social Groups only exist at SNC, there is only a small cost for dues to help toward group functions (dances, Homecoming floats, etc), unlike many Greek groups who typically have to pay more to cover national dues. Both Greek and Social groups at SNC, however, are very affordable, especially when compared to many other such groups around the country.
What do the different names mean?
While the sororities and fraternities at SNC have Greek names (Kappa Beta Gamma, Delta Upsilon, etc), the Social Groups have their own distinctive names, each with a different story typically linked somehow to the groups creation. Currently, the five female Social Groups on campus are: BUD, CC Hams, Electric Company, No Nonsense, and, of course, the Untouchables.
Can anyone join? Is there a pledging process before you can become a member?
With Greek groups, would-be members participate in recruitment events, and the sorority/fraternity members have a process whereby they hand out "bids" to invite new recruits to join their group. Potentials then go through a pledging process before being officially initiated into the Greek group. With Social Groups, there is NO bid or pledging process. Anyone in good academic standing may approach a group in order to join. Typically, potential members attend group meetings and spend time at group events in order to decide which group is right for them. Also, in order to allow for a more academic-focused transition into the college setting, first semester First Year Students are NOT currently allowed to officially join Social or Greek groups. That does not mean you can't be involved though! Although you can't officially join, that first semester is vital for "scoping out" the groups on campus and seeing which group is right for you individually. It's extremely important when selecting a group that you aren't just joining for the "title" or because of the group's name... when you pick a group, you're picking a new family. So choose wisely!
Is there Hazing? Are there Houses?
All groups adhere strictly to St. Norbert College's NO HAZING policy. And, while SNC doesn't have traditional "houses" for the groups (this isn't Animal House, people!), members tend to live together both in and around campus, forming multiple "houses" in a sense.