Frequently Asked Questions About Rush

Q: What does "rush" mean, anyways?

A: The term "rush" describes the period of time where anyone who is thinking about going Greek can take tours of all the houses, hang out with the members, and determine where they fit in best. Take the opportunity to attend all the events, meet great people, and best of all, eat lots of free food!

Q: How long is the rush period?

A: Formal rush takes place in the spring of Freshman year, including house tours called "round robins" and culminating on bid day.

Q: What type of people tend to join FIJI?

A: FIJI seeks gentlemen with strong character who are able to contribute to the Wittenberg campus, Springfield community, and beyond. There is no mold or stereotype about members of FIJI. Instead, they are involved in myriad different activities; the brothers are top-notch athletes, scholars, musicians, and campus leaders. They hail from a variety of states as well as countries, and are able to relate to anyone and everyone on campus.

Q: What should should I expect or do when attending a rush event?

A: First and foremost, make sure to always be yourself. Joining a fraternity is one of the most rewarding things you can do in college, and you want to make sure you find the house that you are most comfortable in and that will provide you the best chance to grow as a person . That's why our goal in FIJI is to make the atmospheres of our events as laid-back as possible. We like having fun together, and want to share that with you. Unless otherwise specified, all events are casual and free.

Q: Is there a pledge period in between rush and initiation in FIJI?

A: Yes, there is a pledge period that lasts 6 to 8 weeks. When asked, many members will  tell you that this was one of the most fulfilling parts of joining the fraternity. It is a chance to learn about the storied history, truly get to know the active members, and especially develop lifelong bonds with those pledging at the same time as you. The friendships you develop are what the motto "not for college days alone" speaks to.

Q: Is hazing a possibility if I decide to join FIJI?

A: No chance at all. Phi Gamma Delta has a STRICT no hazing policy in place. If, in any Greek organization, you are victim to or a witness of hazing, call the anti-hazing hotline immediately. The number is 1-888-NOT-HAZE.

Q: My parents are still a little hesitant about the whole fraternity idea. Is there anywhere they can get more information?

A: Yes, there is! The following link provides a good overview of all the information they would want to know: http://www.phigam.org/netcommunity/page.aspx?pid=920.

Q: I'm intrigued. What's the next step?

A: With formal rush fast approaching, keep your eyes out for events that will be sponsored by FIJI. These include things like barbecues, dodgeball games, and dinners. More details will be sent out about them to your Wittenberg e-mail accounts as they get closer, as well as being posted in the Phi Gamma Delta Upcoming Events section. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in contact with the FIJI rush chairs Sam Archibald (s13.sarchibald@wittenberg.edu, 203-856-8401) and Chris Grasse (s12.cgrasse@wittenberg.edu, 330-933-8933). We can't wait to meet you!