Letter: Taking a closer look at Greeks

To the Editor:

I am writing this response to the article "The Greatest Greek tragedy" published in the Feb. 4 issue of the Black & Magenta.

I am also writing this letter on behalf of the Fraternal organizations at Muskingum University.

I encourage readers that shared views with that article to reevaluate your observations and assumptions of the Greek community and its' pledging traditions.

On the surface some view singing on the quad, perfect hair ties and monochromatic packs as only annoying and tedious activities.

When I view these occurrences on the quad and around the campus, I see commitment, lifelong bonds forming, pride and courage. Every day I witness young adults face and overcome adversity.

Every new year the longevity of the long magenta line strengthens.
The social atmosphere at Muskingum evolves and continues to grow stronger and more influential.

The Feb. 4 article blames pledging for students being tired, groggy, hung over and drooling at class.

The tone implies that being tired and ill prepared for class is a stereotype exclusively associated with pledging and pledges.

This may only be my professional experience but a classroom full of 18 to 20 something year old college students is bound to have groggy, tired, hung over students in attendance.

Every student faces the "staying up all night" temptation for reasons ranging from nothing to video games and yes, even drinking.

I am not accusing the B&M editorial board for falsely accusing Greek Life.

Everyone has the right to criticize especially members of that community.

But I disagree with the negative portrayal of the Greek community.
These critiques upon Greek life are a perception that should now be used as a platform for the rest of the Greek community.

A platform in which we Greeks can use as motivation to continue to improve and maintain a positive perception among the Muskingum community.

I hope that article which portrays a negative Greek community can be flipped to help us enlighten those in the community who share those negative perceptions.

I urge everyone to take a deeper look into pledging and the Greek community.

Notice what you may call "A Greek tragedy" I call a new generation of future leaders at Muskingum growing and coming into their own.

Sincerely,

Jordan Mikols
Stag Club President
Muskingum University