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What is a pledge? A pledge is a potential new member of the fraternity. Our pledges occupy a unique position in that they are affiliated with the fraternity, but are not a member of it. While pledging, they will learn about Alpha Rho Chi; and when the opportunity is offered to them, they will become a member, not just while they are in school, but for life. What is a pledging? Pledging, or pledge training, is the process through which potential new members (pledges) become acquainted with the ways of fraternity membership. During this time, the pledges will be given a complete and thorough training in the fundamental facts about Alpha Rho Chi. How do I pledge? Come to our Rush events during the first few weeks of the fall semester. From there if you receive a bid, you may become a pledge. How much does it cost? Pledge dues vary slightly by semester as our costs vary, for more information please contact Andy Liang, eliang@usc.edu. Where do dues go? About half goes to the national fraternity. The rest goes to the social and professional events that pledges participate in, including: information packets, study materials, APX regalia, and initiation. How long does pledging last? Usually nine weeks, give or take a week depending on the semester. What is involved in pledging? Weekly meetings will take place. Here, you'll learn about the fraternity, as well as participate in educational and group-building activities to forge strong relationships with the other pledges and the members of the fraternity. Pledging is a opportunity for you to evaluate the fraternity and the fraternity to evaluate you. How much commitment does this all take? The amount of effort required can be compared to a relatively simple one- or two-credit class, which meets once per week and requires a reasonable amount of studying. Most of the activities involved are constructed to be fun, bring you closer as a group of pledges, and generate a sense of personal ownership in the well-being of the fraternity. The fraternity expects all pledges to take the process seriously, but as a group of hard working students in architecture and the allied arts, we always understand that everyone has other commitments as well. What about hazing? The practice of hazing is not accepted by the fraternity or the university. Absolutely no acts of violence, harassment or hazing will be tolerated in our organization. Professional fraternities are businesslike groups, where harassment and hazing can only undermine our organizational and professional goals. It is the goal of Alpha Rho Chi to embrace individuals, to foster their development and growth, not to harm them. |