Parents | Student Engagement | University of Nebraska at Kearney

Friendly and welcoming
At UNK, students support each other. We make each other feel accepted and included. Often, people know your name and smile and wave as you walk by. That’s the UNK difference.
Life as a Loper
What does it mean to be a Loper? It's different. Lopers are involved and connected, and actively taking part in their learning.
Get involved in what matters
Be proactive. There are more than 150 active student organizations at UNK. Students who are more involved on campus report improved communication and leadership skills.

Why should our son or daughter 'go Greek?'

Your sons and daughters are embarking on a new and exciting journey here at UNK, with numerous opportunities to establish new friendships, cultivate memorable moments, and celebrate future accomplishments.

But being one of more than 1,000 incoming freshmen students can be intimidating. New college undergraduates often feel overwhelmed once they step onto campus. Numerous studies indicate that student retention is much more accurately reflected by the connection they feel to their campus environment, rather than about their academic performance. By joining a Greek organization, your student will have the opportunity to meet many new and committed students, and they will feel a part of a group that will set their campus connection into motion immediately.

How will my son or daughter benefit from joining a fraternity or sorority?

Fraternities and sororities are rooted in founding principles that foster academic achievement, student involvement, community service, and life-long friendships. Advantages include:

A support group to help ease the adjustment to college.
Scholastic resources to help students achieve their academic goals.
Leadership skills acquired through hands-on experience.
Encouragement to get involved, stay involved and maximize their potential on

campus.
Opportunities for active participation in community service projects.

How will joining a Greek organization affect my student's academic pursuits?

Our members realize that academic achievement is the main priority of UNK Students. Greek-letter organizations continue to strive for academic excellence and promote scholarship by providing academic resources for their members. These include:

tutoring
academic advisors
study groups
scholarships
awards

Chapter members know the importance of helping new students to adjust to University academics. Many chapters have a rewards system based on GPA. Prospective members must meet a minimum GPA in order to be initiated and then must maintain a minimum GPA to remain an active member. In fact, Greek members GPA(s) are traditionally higher than their non-Greek colleagues. For chapter academic records, please click here.

What is the financial obligation?

Like some opportunities for involvement in college there is a financial commitment associated with a joining a fraternity or sorority. The costs go toward the Inter/National fees, chapter operating expenses, and social functions. Financial obligations differ among individual chapters.

New members can expect to pay higher dues their first semester than in subsequent ones. While your son or daughter is participating in the recruitment process, make sure that he or she asks about the financial obligations of membership.

Is hazing a part of the Greek culture at UNK?

The University of Nebraska at Kearney has a zero-tolerance policy regarding hazing that is consistent with the Nebraska State Laws. If you sense your student may be participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you should contact the Fraternity & Sorority Life Office at 308-865-8057. Calls will be handled in an immediate and discreet manner.

What can I do as a parent or family member?

Be supportive, and learn as much as you can by asking your student questions before they join. Many groups will provide written statements concerning activities, finances, and policies; your student should be encouraged to obtain and read this information. In addition, allow your student to make their own choice (especially if you yourself were in a fraternity or sorority). Your support should not end after the recruitment period but continue throughout your student’s years in school. Once your student joins a chapter, take advantage of the Mom’s and Dad’s weekend activities. These are great opportunities for you to see your student interacting with their chapter members, and one more way for you to spend time with your student.

How do I get more information about Fraternity & Sorority Life office Life? How do I contact the Fraternity & Sorority Life office office?

You can go to the Fraternity & Sorority Life homepage at www.unk.edu/fsl for various resources and information. Also, you can contact the Fraternity & Sorority Life office at 308-865-8057 and someone can assist you with any questions you may have.