What about the Independents?

At the beginning of each semester, not only are people worried about getting back on track and bracing themselves for the upcoming semester but many are concerned with whether they should go Greek or stay Independent. Last year alone, 48 percent of the campus was inducted into a Greek fraternity/sorority here at Muskingum University.

Though 52 percent of the campus remained independent, some still ask the question, what about the Independents? What are the Independents to do since they chose not to be affiliated with the Greek community?

Junior Independent Julie Long has been swamped studying for her biology major and playing volleyball throughout her first two years at MU, so she didn't see the importance of pledging.

Though Long has always been able to notice when the pledging season has started based on the actions of students, she has never taken an interest in any of the sororities.

Senior Independent John Bourne was indifferent to Greek Life.

"They seem to do their own thing," said Bourne.

Junior Independent Cassie Gibbs sees Greek Life as too much of a time commitment.

"Mostly all of my friends are in a sorority and it will take up too much of my time anyways," said Gibbs. "I can be with my sorority friends without pledging."

Gibbs finds other ways to spend time with her Greek friends.

"There are Centerboard events at the Chess every weekend to go to," said Gibbs.

Though it may seem like the entire campus is pledging to a fraternity/sorority, CenterBoard is one option to keep yourself entertained with events.

Located primarily in the bottom of the Chess Center, CenterBoard is a campus organization that brings in comedians, newly released movies, and numerous social events throughout the year.

Advisor of CenterBoard Amber Zifzal and Vice President of Centerboard Miranda Koenig are two of the staff who have been putting their heads together to improve the entertainment and make it more appealing to all.

"We're trying to improve year to year, adding in more field trips, and try and get new ideas," said Koenig.

Centerboard now has a Facebook page and will soon have a Twitter account, according to Zifzal.

Whether you go Greek or remain independent, there are multiple program and event opportunities available.