Surely, every student has fond memories of his or her first year at college -- trying to meet new people, fit in new surroundings and experience new things.
For freshmen and others attempting to join a fraternity this semester, things changed a little bit. However, it doesn't seem to have had a negative outcome.
Alcohol was eliminated from all recruitment events, and those interested in joining had to pay a $10 recruitment fee.
Interfraternity Council President Max Wendkos said the new system helps weed out the students who don't actually want to join fraternities and finds those looking to get involved for the right reasons.The numbers seem to be on his side.
This year saw 323 offers to registered recruits and 274 accepted bids, while 184 accepted out of 282 offered bids last year.
The system appears to be working. It is clear that the new practices have not hurt the process, as acceptance rates climbed this year despite the changes.
One year, however, is one thing. It is possible that there are other factors at play as well for these numbers. If stat class taught us anything, it's that correlation does not necessarily mean causation.
While it is too early to write home with irrefutable enthusiasm for the new system, those who were hesitant or skeptical can breathe a sigh of relief.
The spring recruitment period -- new rules and all -- saw improved numbers, and that's a sign that the IFC is headed in the right direction.
