Greek rush season is upon us

   The new semester at Muskingum means that rush will be starting soon with the colorful posters, chanting, and the hustle and bustle that comes with it. Jan. 14 marks the start of rush this year. Men and women will make the decision whether or not the pledge.

   Rush week helps future brothers and sisters decide which Greek organization they want to join. It gives them the opportunity to spend some time with each separate organization.

   Last year the parties were held at Greek houses on and off campus.

   This year, however, holds something different. The parties will be held at neutral locations on campus.

   "It will give the parties a neutral ground," said Student Life Coordinator Stacey Allan. "Plus it will be nice for the rushes to not have to trek through the snow."

   Rush is exactly one week, Jan. 14-21. In this week each person goes to each sorority or fraternity house within their assigned group. While going to each house there are activities set up. These activities are for getting to know each other and learning about the club.

   Each club then decides who they want to join their club. Then each rusher will get a card with the sororities/fraternities that have asked them back. They choose three clubs to visit for a second time. This is the final round of parties that help make the final decision.

   The final stage is to receive their bid cards on Saturday. The cards have which clubs they have been asked to pledge to. Once the pledge decides the club they want, it is time to do the traditional rush up the hill. Once up the hill they join the club of their choice. Then a six week pledge period begins.

   A change from last year is the bid day will be dry, meaning that it will be alcohol free.

   Student Life decided this with students in mind.

   "It will put less pressure on the underage pledges to drink," said Allan. "It will also give bid day a safer day."

   There are many reasons why someone would decide to rush.

   "For freshmen, it gives them a sense of community and belonging," said Allan. "Even if you don't end up joining an organization you can still meet many new people."

   Since rushing is not for everyone, there are many clubs and organizations to be a part of. Greek life is just a section of these activities.

   "I can't wait to start the rush process," said sophomore Brittany Folk. "It will give me a greater opportunity to make even more connections that can possibly help me in the future."

   Whether you rush or don't rush it still gives the campus some hustle, bustle, and a source of entertainment.