Family FAQ
Fraternity and sorority membership can look different across councils and organizations. These answers address some of the most common questions families and supporters have about the experience at The University of New Mexico.
How can my student benefit from joining a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternities and sororities can provide friendship, leadership opportunities, academic support, service experiences, and a smaller community within the larger University. Students may also develop practical skills through chapter leadership, campus involvement, and relationships that continue beyond graduation.
Will fraternity or sorority membership interfere with academics?
Academics should remain a student’s first priority. Many chapters provide study sessions, peer mentoring, academic accountability, and incentives for strong performance. UNM fraternity and sorority members have recently earned a community GPA above the campus average.
Students should still consider their individual course load, employment, health, and other responsibilities before committing to an organization.
When should my student join?
Students may explore membership whenever they feel prepared to balance the experience with their other responsibilities. Joining early can help some students build friendships and a sense of belonging during their transition to college, but it is also completely appropriate to wait until a later semester.
There is no single timeline that is right for every student.
Does every student join through the same process?
No. Recruitment and membership processes vary by governing council, chapter, and semester.
Some organizations participate in a structured recruitment process, while others hold individual recruitment activities or conduct membership intake when the chapter is prepared to welcome new members.
[Learn How Membership Works]
How much does membership cost?
Costs vary by organization. Expenses may include national dues, local chapter fees, insurance, events, apparel, meals, or housing when applicable. New members may have higher expenses during their first semester, and some organizations offer scholarships or payment plans.
Students should request a complete explanation of costs, payment deadlines, and refund policies before accepting membership.
[Review Costs and Financial Expectations]
How can I confirm that an organization is recognized by UNM?
Use the University’s recognized chapter directory to confirm an organization’s current standing before your student attends membership activities or accepts an invitation to join.
University recognition can affect an organization’s access to advising, campus facilities, programs, and other resources.
[View Recognized Chapters]
Is hazing allowed at UNM?
No. Hazing is prohibited by the University and recognized fraternity and sorority organizations. Concerns should be taken seriously and reported, even when a student or family member is not certain whether an activity meets the formal definition of hazing.
A student should never be expected to tolerate humiliation, coercion, threats, physical harm, dangerous activities, or retaliation as a condition of membership.
[View Hazing Prevention and Reporting Information]
What rules apply to alcohol and other high-risk activities?
Recognized organizations must follow University policies, applicable laws, and the risk-management expectations of their national or international organizations. Chapters also receive education related to health, safety, and responsible event practices.
Students remain responsible for their own decisions and should leave any situation that feels unsafe or inconsistent with what they were told to expect.
How can I support my student without taking over?
Stay curious, ask open-ended questions, and allow your student to make their own membership decision. Encourage them to communicate directly with chapter leaders, advisors, and University staff when routine questions or concerns arise.
Families can also stay engaged by attending appropriate events, learning about the organization, and checking in about the student’s academic, financial, and personal well-being.
[Learn More About Supporting Your Student]
Does membership continue after college?
Fraternity and sorority membership is intended to be lifelong. Alumni may remain involved through graduate chapters, advisory roles, professional networks, mentoring, and other opportunities for continued connection.
What information can the University share with families?
University staff can provide general information about recognition, policies, resources, and reporting options. Privacy requirements may limit what staff can share about an individual student without that student’s permission.
Families may still share concerns with the University, even when staff cannot provide detailed information in return.
Who should I contact with a question or concern?
The Fraternity & Sorority Life Office can help families understand the community, confirm recognition, locate resources, and identify the appropriate person to contact.
For an immediate emergency, contact emergency services. For concerns involving hazing, coercion, retaliation, or student safety, use the University’s reporting resources.
[Contact Fraternity & Sorority Life]
[Report a Concern]
