Q: Why should my son join TKE?
A: Through our membership development and education programs, each member of TKE is provided with the resources and tools that will help him achieve his personal best in all areas of college life and prepares him for success after graduation. Our men embody the principles promoted by the Fraternity, Love Charity and Esteem, and are poised for success after graduation.
Q: Aren't fraternities just like the one shown in the movie "Animal House?"
A: Nobody likes stereotypes. Unfortunately, after the showing of that movie, fraternity members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible, and abusive. In reality, fraternities are value-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendship.
Q: Don't fraternities promote excessive drinking?
A: Absolutely not. Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with the ideals of Tau Kappa Epsilon. Every individual member and chapter is expected to uphold federal, state, county, and city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.
Q: I'm concerned about my son's grades--what impact will fraternity membership have?
A: Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Tau Kappa Epsilon will assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs which might include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. Moreover, your son will be able to access the network of brothers who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors.
It's important to note that while Tau Kappa Epsilon is concerned about the academic achievement of its members, your son is still ultimately responsible for using the resources made available by his decision to join a fraternity.
Q: What about pledging or hazing?
A: Tau Kappa Epsilon does not condone or tolerate any form of hazing and is committed to a membership education period which instills a sense of responsibility and commitment in the new members. This period will assist your son in overcoming the difficulties associated with the first semester of college.
Q: Who is actually in charge of the fraternity?
A: Members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the local chapter. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors.
Q: Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?
A: Iota-Xi chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. Candidates will be expected to pay a candidate fee as well as a membership fee in return for an associate’s pin, the TKE Guide, a membership badge and certificate.
For more information regarding the fees charged by the International Fraternity, please visit http://www.tke.org/member_resources/finance/fee_structure. These include a one-time candidate fee and initiation fee.
Q: Being in a fraternity sounds like it takes a lot of time.
A: Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his involvement with Tau Kappa Epsilon, your son will learn how to balance his academic, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.
Q: What is my son going to get out of his membership in Tau Kappa Epsilon?
A: You'll be amazed at what your son will get from his experience in Tau Kappa Epsilon. Joining TKE will round out your son's collegiate experience. In fact, most alumni say that TKE completed their educational experience by teaching them valuable skills that are not taught in the classroom.
Here's what TKE offers: lifelong friends, leadership opportunities, social and athletic activities, academic support and excellence, and networking opportunities.