Family Guide to FSL

Welcome Families!

Your student is considering joining a fraternity or sorority at the University of New Mexico—and you likely have questions. That’s completely normal. Whether you were Greek yourself or know little about fraternity and sorority life beyond what you’ve seen in movies, we’re here to help you better understand the modern experience, its purpose, and its value.

Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) at UNM is about community, personal growth, and lifelong impact. Our students join to find belonging, build leadership skills, serve others, and succeed academically. And while each student’s experience is different, parents consistently tell us the same thing: it helped their student grow in ways they never expected.

You have come to the right place to learn more! If you have any additional questions after reviewing this site, please contact our office at 505-277-4706 or greeks@unm.edu. 

📚 Academic Support

Academic achievement is foundational to every fraternity and sorority. All chapters at UNM require members to maintain a minimum GPA and offer tailored academic plans that often include:

  • Required study hours and tutoring resources

  • Incentive programs tied to academic performance

  • Regular grade checks and mentoring from upperclassmen

  • Access to faculty, alumni, and campus advisors

💡 In 2024–2025, the average GPA for UNM FSL members was 3.31—higher than the all-student average.

🧠 Personal Growth & Leadership

FSL students develop critical life skills like time management, communication, conflict resolution, and public speaking. They lead their own organizations—managing budgets, planning events, and mentoring others. UNM students also attend national conferences and leadership institutes, including AFLV, UIFI, and officer academies.

“My daughters learned responsibility... how to manage events, follow rules, and gain confidence in themselves. Their membership gave them lifelong friends and professional contacts.” – UNM Parent

👥 Belonging & Support from Day One

Research shows that students who build strong connections in their first 8 weeks are more likely to stay in college, feel supported, and graduate on time. At UNM, 95% of FSL students return for their sophomore year, compared to 64% of non-members.

Fraternities and sororities offer an instant community. Students find friends who share their values and support systems that carry them through the ups and downs of college life.

💸 Understanding Costs

Joining a fraternity or sorority involves financial responsibility. Dues vary by chapter but typically go toward national membership, insurance, programming, and service events. Many groups offer:

  • Semesterly or monthly payment plans

  • One-time new member fees

  • Scholarships for leadership or need

We encourage families to talk openly about budgeting and expectations before recruitment begins.

🍻 What About Parties?

Let’s be honest: social events are part of the college experience, and fraternities and sororities do host gatherings. But at UNM, these organizations are expected to follow strict policies that prioritize safety and accountability. All chapters are required to complete regular training on alcohol use, risk prevention, event planning, and bystander intervention. Events involving alcohol must comply with campus policies, local laws, and national organization guidelines.

We encourage you to talk with your student about making safe choices and being a responsible community member. Fraternity and Sorority Life doesn’t eliminate social risks—but it does provide structure, oversight, and education that many unaffiliated students don’t receive.

🔒 Safety & Hazing Prevention

UNM enforces a zero-tolerance policy on hazing. Chapters that violate this policy face serious consequences. We encourage parents to:

  • Ask their students about their experiences

  • Support open, honest conversations

  • Contact our office with any concerns

🧭 What’s Expected of Members?

Every chapter has standards based on national values. These often include:

  • GPA and academic progress

  • Financial responsibility

  • Participation in chapter events

  • Commitment to community service

Ask your student: “What are the values of your organization, and how do you live them?” It’s a powerful way to encourage meaningful reflection—and growth.

🎓 After College: Lifelong Benefits

Membership doesn’t end at graduation. UNM fraternity and sorority alumni stay connected through:

  • National and regional alumni associations

  • Professional networking and job leads

  • Mentorship programs and graduate chapters

FSL membership is a long-term investment in relationships, career readiness, and personal development.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How You Can Support Your Student

  • Encourage them to research and ask questions

  • Talk honestly about costs, time, and expectations

  • Let them lead the experience—but be available

  • Attend Family Weekend or chapter-hosted events

  • Reach out to our staff with questions

🎉 Pro tip: Family Weekend is a great time to meet chapter members, enjoy campus traditions, and see your student shine. We welcome all family members—siblings, grandparents, aunts, and uncles included!

 

🧾 Quick FAQs

When should my student join?
As early as possible! The earlier they get connected, the more support they’ll have during the critical first semester. Most students join in the fall or spring of their first year.

How much time will they spend on FSL?
It varies, but most members spend 4–8 hours a week attending meetings, service projects, and chapter events. Leadership roles may require more time.

What if they decide to leave?
They can. Membership is a choice, and no student is forced to stay. We encourage open communication with both the chapter and our office if questions arise.

What’s the recruitment process like?
Some organizations use formal recruitment with set schedules; others recruit informally year-round. Every council (IFC, Panhellenic, MGC, NPHC) has a unique process—our website offers timelines and tips.

 

📥 Resources & Contact Info