By Giulia Gutzwiller, Arts and Entertainment Editor 

  When I was applying to colleges, one aspect of Xavier that drew me in was the absence of Greek life and many of my peers shared this sentiment. Now, I wish it had a presence at Xavier.

  While Xavier already has some Greek organizations, there has been talk of welcoming National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities and Interfraternity Conference (IFC) fraternities to campus in the coming years. Greek life is often associated with party culture, hazing and large universities. 

However, a smaller school like Xavier has a lot to gain from introducing IFC fraternities and NPC sororities. Benefits include community building, service opportunities and networking.

  For students who struggle to find a sense of belonging at Xavier, Greek life could be a way to find their people and create long-lasting bonds. Students of different years and majors can get to know each other in a fraternity or sorority setting. The tradition of family trees also allows “bigs,” typically upperclassmen, to mentor their “littles,” or newer members.

  Fraternities and sororities provide a close-knit community that goes beyond classes or clubs. As someone involved in many activities on campus, even I could benefit from the social network of a sorority.

  In addition to community, Greek life gives students the chance to engage in service. As a Jesuit institution, Greek organizations at Xavier should focus on one of our core values: service rooted in justice and love. From clothing drives to fundraising for local charities, fraternities and sororities can help surrounding communities through service projects.

  Membership can also have a positive impact on a student’s future career. Those who take on leadership roles improve their organization and communication skills, preparing them for life after college. Greek life also builds professional connections, especially through alumni networks.

  Some argue that Xavier is not the place for Greek life because it fosters a toxic environment. Each year, it seems there is a new story about hazing at a large university, and many more likely go unreported.

However,  those issues say more about poor oversight at other schools than they do about Greek life itself. Administrators at Xavier could supervise organizations more effectively because of the smaller student population.

  Others worry Greek life will affect campus culture. At large universities where many students join fraternities and sororities, membership can feel like the only option. That does not have to be the case at Xavier. Instead, Greek life could reinforce community bonds while remaining inclusive of those who choose not to participate.

Xavier will not turn into the next “Bama Rush” with the introduction of Panhellenic Greek life. Instead, more students will find their place here and know that Xavier is where they belong.