USC ALPHA PHI OMEGA | SPRING 2012 RUSH

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Since Alpha Phi Omega is a fraternity, is membership limited to men?

No. We are a co-educational fraternity, so we allow members of both sexes to join us. And although we refer to one another as Brothers, we treat men and women equally in everything we do.

How is Alpha Phi Omega different from a social fraternity?

We believe that social experiences play an important role in the college experience. Our fellowship events are designed to encourage comaraderie among Brothers. Along these lines, we recognize the value of Greek social organizations on campus, and some of our members have joined these groups. However, we also believe that service is useful and rewarding, and have made that our focus. We believe service is one of the best ways to make friends and meet new people.

How many people are in the Alpha Kappa Chapter?

We have over 100 active members.

Does Alpha Kappa Chapter have a fraternity house?

As a service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega does not have a fraternity house. We believe this helps us keep our focus on service. We still, however, organize fellowship events throughout the year.

Is the chapter a member of the Interfraternity Council?

While we are not affiliated with the Interfraternity Council, we do actively participate in the Inter-Service Council. This group provides a number of opportunities for students to meet peers similarly dedicated to service, and to organize joint projects.

The Rush Process

If I decide to rush, am I committed to joining Alpha Phi Omega?

No. Rush provides an opportunity for you to evaluate Alpha Phi Omega and see if it is right for you. If you decide it is a good fit, we will invite you to pledge with us. If, for any reason, you decide not to move forward in Alpha Phi Omega, you have no obligations.

The Pledge Process

Does Alpha Phi Omega haze?

No. An appropriate period of pledging has no place for hazing practices. These include the degradation of individuals, personal service demands, and any other practices inconsistent with the spirit and principles of Alpha Phi Omega. The concept of Pledge Membership long ago progressed beyond such practices since they violate the members' obligation to state law, the National Bylaws of the Fraternity and the regulations of the University of Southern California. Alpha Phi Omega members respect the worth of human dignity and, in firm support of our heritage of intellectual freedom, do not tolerate unequal or abusive treatment of any person.

How long is the pledge process?

The pledge process lasts from early February to mid-April (around 9 weeks).

What is expected of pledges?

Pledges must fulfill a standard set of requirements in order to cross over to active membership. These range from taking quizzes on the history of the Fraternity, to planning a chapter-wide service event, to interviewing one another to learn more about their Pledge Brothers.
Pledges must also be available for all of the following mandatory events:
Spring 2012 Rush     Alpha Phi Omega - Alpha Kappa