Does having Greek life improve campus life?

Source: Niche 

The economic principle I’m exploring is because of scarcity, people choose. All choices have an opportunity cost.

My research question to help me study the economic principle is “Does Greek life make college students more successful? ”

The article published in Huffington Post titled “The Greek System: Should College Students Join Fraternities or Sororities” demonstrates this economic principle by arguing/showing how the Greek system is flawed because it leads to increased drug consumption, a more homogeneous social environment and is very expensive.  

First, fraternities and sororities are believed to have outlived their usefulness. Fraternities and sororities exist to provide a social community and business opportunities but instead most “encourage alcohol consumption, including underage and illegal drinking.” The Greek system puts a big emphasis on partying which reduces time members can spend studying, ultimately decreasing overall educational performance. From my own experience, I feel that college students who join Greek houses tend to engage in partying more than those who aren't involved in the Greek system.

Second, Greek life can limit personal growth by restricting opportunities for diverse social growth. Fraternity and sorority members typically choose members who are like themselves which leads to the formation of campus ethnic and socio-economic divisions. College students can more easily find economic and social diversity in dorm or residential life. This leads me to believe that living in traditional on-campus housing provides a diverse experience which can lead students to success.

Third, it is important to consider the financial and personal costs of joining the Greek system. Participating in the Greek system can be expensive and requires a significant amount of money put towards social activities that have no educational purpose. Greek life can be very expensive, but it is the price some people are willing to pay to get their desired college experience. It seems like a better option to just be friends with members of the Greek system rather than to live in a Greek house as a full-time pledged member.

In my next blog post I will research the question: “Do college students need to have internships to achieve success?"