Fraternities and sororities have been a part of Stanford since the first day the University opened in 1891. Greeks have enjoyed a vibrant and dynamic existence at Stanford, and today represent 13% of the undergraduate student population. Currently, 28 Greek organizations are formally recognized by the University.
Fraternities and sororities thrive at Stanford because Greek organizations serve to enhance the college experience. Greeks at Stanford have been shown to be one of the most active niches of the student body across a wide academic and co-curricular spectrum. Greek life provides support networks for its members as well as opens doors to meeting other students, interacting with upperclassmen who become role models, and learning of opportunities for leadership.
Across the Farm, Greeks are involved and active! Greeks write honors theses. Greeks sit on the ASSU Senate. Greeks are in the Women's Center. Greeks are on the courts of Maples Pavilion—cheering and shouting. Greeks study at Stanford in Oxford. Greeks tutor the elementary schools of local communities. Greeks perform with Ram's Head. Going Greek at Stanford does not mean a risk in sacrificing other opportunities… it only means a risk in sacrificing boredom and complacency!
The real reason that Greek organizations thrive—especially at Stanford—is friendship. Fraternities and sororities provide students with the chance to meet amazing individuals and form life-long friendships. At Stanford, Greek affiliation is a unique chance to be involved with a strong, continuous community over one's Stanford career. By and large, Greek alumni report that their strongest affiliation with Stanford is through their friends from their Greek chapters.
