Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
PARENTS

As a parent, you are probably concerned about your son's college experience and the choices he will make. This section is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about fraternity membership and Delta Sigma Phi.

I'm concerned about my son's grades. What impact would fraternity membership have?

Delta Sigma Phi is concerned about your son’s education as well. Every member’s first obligation is to the University of Kentucky and then to extra-curricular activities. Delta Sigma Phi assists by offering scholarship programs which may include study partners, mentors, study hours, test files, lecture notes, class schedule planning, and time management workshops. Your son can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors.

Will my son be hazed?

No!!  Delta Sigma Phi refuses to participate in hazing.  All activities must be productive, constructive, and relate to bettering the fraternity and its members.  Anything that differs from this is not allowed or tolerated!!  Hazing was not a reason for the creation of this fraternity and it will not be a part of the experience!

We expect your son to uphold the values of this our fraternity and serve as a positive representation of the letters DSF.  We expect all of our members – pledges and brothers alike - to strive for academic excellence, recruit new members, attend weekly meetings, and most importantly, have fun.  Education wise, your son will be expected to learn the fraternity history, how DSF operates internally, and enjoy building friendships.

If this sounds too good to be true then ask yourself this: How is it that Delta Sig initiates 95% of its pledges each year with a pledge GPA of a 3.33?  Delta Sig does not pledge college men to "weed" them out.  When your son is offered a bid, Delta Sig is extending its brotherhood to him.  Every activity our pledges participate in is positive and constructive - anything that is a tangent of this is not allowed.

On a national level, Delta Sigma Phi has a very strict policy on hazing. It is really simple, we do not allow it! It is a destructive practice that has no place in a brotherhood of men. If you feel like your son is being hazed please contact Delta Sigma Phi Headquarters Immediately. 1 (800) 394-1899 extension 0 or by e-mail info@deltasig.org.


I hear things about binge drinking, what is your fraternity's policy on alcohol?

Delta Sigma Phi’s Policy on Responsibility and Accountability states that the fraternity does not allow alcohol to be consumed or present on fraternity property. Fraternity property is defined as anything owned, rented, leased, or perceived to be Delta Sigma Phi property. Furthermore, our National Code of Conduct states that “I will support Delta Sigma Phi’s policies against the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and drugs.”  Activities or actions that violate these policies are not condoned by Delta Sigma Phi.

Who is actually in charge of the Fraternity?

Undergraduate fraternity members manage the day-to-day operations of the University of Kentucky Chapter. A support structure is in place to help guide the members, this structure is called the Alumni Corporation Board. The ACB is a group of local alumni and volunteers who serves as mentors to the undergraduate men.

Delta Sigma Phi offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Faculty and staff from the college and university are also available to assist and monitor the activities of the fraternity.

Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?

The cost of joining a fraternity is very similar to joining any other student organization. During your son’s pledge semester his fees are $450 (a one-time membership/initiation fee) and they cover a pledge education manual, two fraternity badges, rush t-shirt, and an educational membership binder that serves as a reference guide for your son’s fraternity experience.  After that, the only fees that are assessed are the semester dues of $400 that the chapter treasurer collects. Your son will have the option to make an early payment and receive a 10% discount.  Payment plans are also available and the treasurer works closely with each member to accommodate their financial situation.  Payments can be made daily, weekly, monthly, etc…

The $400 semester dues cover social events, University of Kentucky intramural sports, date parties/formals, fraternity house building fund, chapter officer workshops (regional conferences in Atlanta, GA), national consultant visits, insurance, and a lifetime subscription to the Carnation – the fraternity publication.  A non-Greek student would spend approximately the same amount of money each semester for similar social activities without receiving the numerous leadership and development opportunities that Delta Sigma Phi offers.

Does being in a fraternity take a lot of time?

Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate. Also, they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his fraternity involvement, your son will learn how to balance his academic work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Relating specifically to your son’s involvement in Delta Sigma Phi, time varies depending on his interest in assuming leadership roles.  DSF is a way of life and the fraternity is always looking to recruit new brothers.  In terms of meetings, your son can expect 1-2 per week for a total of 2-4 hours.  Aside from meetings, the brothers like to get together for social events.  Whether it’s wing night at BW-3, intramural football, or date parties with sororities, the fraternity offers many additional/optional social opportunities. 

How does my son go about joining Delta Sigma Phi?

You and your son have already taken the first step towards membership by researching the University of Kentucky Delta Sigma Phi Chapter by viewing our web page.  Once your son begins college he should stop by Delta Sigma Phi recruitment activities before and during rush week.  (click here to find out about DSF rush activities) Your son can also get an early jump on rush by contacting Recruitment Chairman Robby Martin at robbymartin7@hotmail.com or calling him at 859-806-3514 to receive more information.

What is my role as a parent?

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son as he meets people through the recruitment process. Once your son joins, you will have the opportunity to participate in chapter and campus programs, and if you choose, become active with the ACB or as a member of a “parents' club”.