Rush, as a noun, is Greek-speak for "recruitment." Rush can, and does, happen at any time of the year. There are, however, periods which the Interfraternity Council (IFC) designates as official Rush periods. During these times most of the fraternities hold recruiting events. Here at George Mason, there are two week-long Rush periods. This usually occurs at George Mason during the first month of each semester, but can vary at different colleges.

Rush, as a verb, means to try and have someone join a fraternity. This is what is meant by a fraternity member "rushing" a potential member. It can also mean what you, as a potential member, do when you visit the different fraternities during Rush periods or when trying to join a specific fraternity.

We Rush 24 hours a day 365 days a year! Interested? Feel free to contact one of our officers!

If you are new to the Greek System, you probably know very little about what fraternity life is all about. Sure, you see the parties and big events like homecoming. However, that is only a small part of what fraternity actually is. Fraternity is a group of men with whom you share a special bond. You and your brothers share common experiences that shape your life and how you view others. Brotherhood transcends other friendships... it is stronger in ways you couldn't previously understand. Fraternity is knowing that whatever happens to you, you will always have brothers who will stand behind you and support you. If you are having troubles with anything like grades, girls, or family your brothers will help you through them. They will also be there to share your greatest moments. If you want to accomplish something great at GMU, your brothers will be there to help you do it. Also, alumni of your fraternity exist throughout the country. You will never have met many of them; nevertheless, they will be there for you as you enter the "real world." Fraternity is a sense of identity that will be with you for life. It doesn't matter how old you are, you will always have a home to come back to at GMU. Finally, fraternity is something to believe in; traditions and principles that have been around in many cases for over 100 years. You experience the same rituals and learn the same secrets that your brothers experienced decades before. You become a part of something that is larger than the sum of its parts. Once you leave, it will still be there, and you will forever be a part of it. In a sense, fraternity makes you immortal at a university where it is very simple to be a number; another face in the crowd. Still don't understand? You never will unless you decide to make fraternity a part of your life. Come out and see what fraternity life at GMU is all about.

Be yourself! If you try to act differently during rush, or go out of your way to impress people, or "act cool," the brothers will see through it. The best way to make friends and earn their respect is to act like you would any other day.

Here are some general pointers that will help you get a bid:

-Don't limit your options by rushing too few fraternities, but don't rush too many and risk not getting to know any of them well enough.

-Never criticize a brother, another fraternity, or another house. You never know who will take offense to your comments.

-Get to know other guys who are rushing. Don't count on joining the same fraternity that they will, but you will feel much more comfortable throughout the rush process.

-Have fun! Rush can be one of the most fun and exciting times you'll have in college.