What to Wear to Recruitment Events

Recruitment is a series of events that usually happen over the period of a week. Here are descriptions of typical events, suggestions of what to wear, talk about and expect. Refer to your university Panhellenic information for specifics for your university.

There are usually 4 periods that can last anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours.

Attire typically goes from casual to dressy as the week progresses. The best rule is to follow the Two C*s: Classic and Conservative.

Good basics to have: nice shorts (not too short), dressy jeans, a sundress, a nice pair of slacks/shirt or skirt/shirt; cocktail dress or dressy, church dress; comfortable shoes for walking and standing.

1st Event – Open House (typically)

Dress: Most universities provide a t-shirt for the first day. With it wear nice shorts or a blue jean skirt, or nice jeans if you are in a cool climate. Wear comfortable shoes like flip-flops or tennis shoes, because you will walk a lot. If a t-shirt is not provided, plan on nice shorts, Capri pants, or casual dress or pants appropriate to the season.

Conversation: Ask questions about what you're being shown or information that you are given. If you're asked questions, answer with more than a “yes” or “no” and be upbeat. It does not matter if these are the same questions and responses you just gave at the last 10 houses. The member is doing her best to get to know you, so be open and cheerful.

Mood: High energy, clapping and singing; very crowded; loud.

2nd Event – Skit, Philanthropy Party or House Tour (Period 1 or 2)

Dress: Capri pants, sundress, or casual pants appropriate to the season. Wear comfortable shoes as you still may be walking or standing a lot.

Conversation: Same as 1st Event, but you may have skits or songs to discuss. They invited you back, so return the courtesy by being positive and showing an interest in their group.

Mood: Basically same as Event 1, but less frantic and loud.

3rd Event – Skit, Philanthropy Party or House Tour (Period 2 or 3)

Dress: Nice dress or slacks; some universities provide another t-shirt for philanthropy days.

Conversation: Talk about what you enjoyed the last time you were at the house and what you like about that particular sorority. Be sincere. Conversations will be longer and more in-depth. If this is your last visit before Preference Day, do not let the opportunity pass to say thank you warmly and let them know how you feel. (Don’t be too aggressive, just positive!)

Mood: Calmer, less crowded; could start to get emotional.

4th Event – Preference Party (after this you will rank your choices)

Dress: Semiformal or cocktail dress, or very nice church dress. The famous “little black dress” is always a good choice.

Conversation: If you are here today, the sorority probably wants you as much as you want them. Ask the important questions that are on your mind, such as why that girl chose the sorority or ask her to share with you what her sorority means to her. It is very appropriate to talk about your feelings regarding the sorority. Be sincere, as always.

Mood: Emotional, quiet, reflective.