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Name: Christine Rega
Class: Chi - Spring '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
Before PSP, I really didn't know anything about fraternities or sororities. I didn't know the ones on campus and I just had that stereotypical image of Animal House when I would think of a fraternity. I had the image of a sorority to be a bunch of girls living together and I knew that I didn't want that. Coming into college I didn't want to join a sorority. I didn't want to be hazed and I didn't want to be around that many girls in a house. After joining PSP, I now know that these sterotypes can be true for other frats and sororities but PSP is not like that in the least. First off, I was attracted to PSP because it was co-ed. But then, I realized the "fraternity" was more like a mix of community service organization, honor society and a group of friends.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
After the informational session, I was really hooked to join. The letter that I got made me feel like it was one of those societies to join, pay your dues and then have a name on your resume. But after the info session, I felt like I knew enough about the fraternity to make me really want to commit myself to it. I left thinking I knew enough about it to start the rush process and I was aware that I would learn more as time went on. The Brothers were really helpful at the session and answered my questions about the group.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
I was excited. I knew that I would learn slowly about PSP and I knew that the Brothers were here for me if I had any questions or concerns. I don't remember being nervous about joining a group that I didn't know. If I found out that it wasn't for me, I would have dropped. Everyone was helpful though in the first weeks of rush to make us feel comfortable and aware of what we were getting in to.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
They were amazing. It was intimidating to meet so many Brothers, who were at the time upperclassmen. But they were extremely nice and helpful and directed us well. My Big kept encouraging me throughout the initiate process and other Brothers just made me feel so welcomed. After I joined, it was a little difficult to transfer to a Brother since Chapter was huge and so new. But hopefully this semester we will have two Chapter meetings before the semester ends with the new Brothers to avoid that.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Yes yes yes! I couldn't imagine college without PSP...and I can't imagine who I would be without it.
Name: Ginny Nielsen
Class: Psi - Fall '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
I thought Fraternities and Sororities were not for me. I did want to be hazed and forced to do things and be exploited... I basically despised any thing involving the greek world.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
No, I don't think I needed any more introductory meetings to understand PSP. I actually didn't get to the info sessions and the first social event because the letter didn't reach my house until halfway through! And I still joined PSP!! :D
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
Yea, I was a little scared; but I always want to discover new things about UMass, and PSP is a perfect example of that. I'm really glad I found it!
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes, I believe it was very informative. I just wish there was more of an emphasis about doing well on quizzes. When I was an initiate I was told the first meeting that they weren't necessary and didn't really count, so I did some studying for them but didn't do much. Now that times have changed the quizzes do count!!
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Completely. You as a brother have the power to change anything in the organization; whether you're on E-Board or not. You can pass amendments and change whatever you want within your committee! And even if you're not in a certain committee but you want to contribute your own input, you can talk to the people in that committee and give them advice or ideas!!
Name: Stephanie Geiser
Class: Alpha Alpha - Fall '08
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
Prior to getting a letter in the mail about PSP all I really knew about fraternities and sororities was what I had seen on TV and in the movies and I wasn't particularly interested in getting involved with a stereotypical sorority. I was afraid to get involved with a sorority like Delta Nu from Legally Blonde or a fraternity like in Animal House.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
During the rush period I wasn't exactly sure of everything that was happening, but I understood the basic principles behind Phi Sigma Pi. It really took the entire initiation process for me to understand the reasons behind everything that we did.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
Absolutely. I went to the first information session unsure of what PSP actually was and apprehensive of whether I would join. But the people were so nice and welcoming that it made me want to come back and learn more about their organization.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes. As a new brother I am still a little unsure of how some things are run,
but they prepared me as best they could to fulfill my duties as a brother and they are still there to help me if I have questions or are unsure of how to proceed. There are so many resources available; you just have to ask.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Yes!
Name: Caity Bond
Class: Alpha Alpha - Fall '08
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
My initial attitude towards fraternities and sororities was probably pretty typical: good for parties and not much else, very exclusive about who gets in. And of course I thought of the funny and gross initiation stories I've heard over the years.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
From the info sessions and the rush events, I think I got a pretty good idea of what PSP is all about (the Tripod) and the kinds of people involved in it, but I didn't realize how intensive the pledge process would be or that it would cost money to join from those first few events. I think it would be good to talk more about those aspects of joining PSP right off the bat.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
I wasn't nervous about it. I knew other people who were interested in joining, so that was helpful, and I got a good impression from the info session and the rush events I went to.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
I felt that the brothers who were most closely involved with the initiates and went to the majority of the initiate chapter meetings were very helpful and informative.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Yes. I like everyone that I've met through PSP and it's nice to be able to plan and attend events that I might not otherwise take part in. I also feel that PSP definitely offers a lot of leadership positions for those that are interested. Even though I thought the pledge process was kind of a pain, it was a good way to get to know the brothers and other initiates.
Name: Vinny Capone
Class: Chi - Spring '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
If someone would have told me that I'd join a fraternity when I was applying to college, I would never have believed them. Everyone hears the strange stories about fraternities and sororities and hazing rituals and the sorts. After seeing these things on TV and hearing stories I was certain I would stay clear from any fraternal life. When I got to UMass I had gone to some parties at different frats and, again, there was nothing that I found appealing to make me want to join. But Phi Sigma Pi is different from the social fraternities on campus. Nationally it has a great reputation and in the Amherst area our chapter is working hard to grow and make more of an impression on the surrounding area.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
When I was rushing for PSP, I was really nervous and still didn't fully comprehend what it meant to be a brother. Rush was a crazy period and things were thrown at me left and right. Once I became an initiate things were cleared up and I quickly found out what the fraternity stood for and what I could get out of it.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
Yes, I was very nervous. Fortunately I was pledging with one of my closest friends on campus at the time, but I was still nervous. Rush seemed like a very hectic and fast time but it was exciting to learn about the fraternity, what it stood for, and what I could expect from it. At the time I still wasn't completely sure how badly I wanted to join, but now looking back I am glad I stuck it out!
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes. After getting through the initial shock of being accepted and becoming an initiate, some of the more confusing points were cleared up and I knew what I was getting myself into. The Brothers also made it clear that if I had further questions or concerns that I shouldn't be afraid to approach any of them and get more information - everyone was helpful and kind, and though I am often a shy person, I felt comfortable with the Brothers and the community they had built.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Yes I do, completely. Phi Sigma Pi has allowed me to meet some amazing
people who I otherwise may not have gotten to know. Through Phi Sigma Pi I have been able to get to know these people on a real personal level and consider all of my Brothers to be some of my greatest friends. I enjoy hanging out with them, I enjoy attending our meetings, and I look forward to seeing them each week. Besides making friends, I've become active in helping the community and I've learned a lot of new things.
Name: Kayla Blake
Class: Chi - Spring '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
I had a pretty positive outlook on them. However, I did have some stereotypical thoughts towards them.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
I felt I understood the basic ideas behind Phi Sigma Pi. You really do need more meetings to fully understand it but I feel that is what the initiate process is for. Too much information during rush would feel overwhelming.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
I was nervous but everyone was really friendly which helped ease that.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
They did a great job during the initiate process. By the end I felt that for the most part I understood what Phi Sigma Pi was all about.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
I honestly believe that joining Phi Sigma Pi was the best decision I havemade at college.
Name: Korey Mendes
Class: Psi - Fall '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
My original attitude towards Greek society in college was that of cynicism and skepticism. I didn�t believe there were any Greek organizations out there like Phi Sigma Pi. I thought they were all representative of Animal House that, while a good movie, is not what I would�ve liked to be a part of during my time in college. And even when I went to my first info session, I was constantly questioning Phi Sigma Pi�s intentions. I always had the thought in the back of my mind, �What are they going to pitch to me now?� Even little pieces of information that Uriel, my friend long before joining PSP, hinted to me before joining the frat (such as the fact that PSP has secrets only Brothers know) made me think I was joining some weird cult. Now, though, I can think back to these preliminary thoughts and laugh because I realize that I had no reason to be skeptical. Why did my thought process change? Well, keep reading, and you might just find out!
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
The info sessions were full of three things: invigorated Brothers, shy yet eager prospective members, and information. Whether you were attending an info session or a rush event, you always had these three elements. Learning people names, who they are, what they�re about � looking back on it all, I was actively learning one of Phi Sigma Pi�s pillars right off the bat: Fellowship. I came to learn the other two pillars of the tripod, Scholarship and Leadership, over time; but when it came to the most basic info required, I felt the brothers did very well in providing us with it.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
I think due to my skepticism, I wasn�t as nervous as most. You see, when I have a negative perception of something, in this case Greek society, I tend to not care about what happens to my relationship with that certain entity. At the time, while I put 100% of myself into getting to know more about the fraternity (one of my principals: Always try your best, no matter what), I was always cautious and suspicious that maybe this wasn�t for me. This feeling faded fast as I entered initiation; but looking back I realize that my misguided thoughts protected me from nervousness throughout initiation, and I don�t mind that.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
After becoming an initiate, I was in full gear to become a Brother. I listened and interacted with as many Brothers as I could. They were all interesting people of different backgrounds, and it was pleasing getting to know all of these fascinating people! They were all so well versed in the traditions and ideals of Phi Sigma Pi that I started picking up on the organization pretty quickly. I will admit, however, that some things I had to learn by first becoming a Brother. That took time, and I was completely willing to wait.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
What I�m about to say pretty much directly continues from question one. These people are the best peers I could ever ask for. The diversity, the sincerity, and the overall ambition of my Brothers never ceases to amaze me. The Brothers of Phi Sigma Pi really are the epitome of what it means to be a friend. I am not a Godly man, but I can say, without a doubt, that I am blessed to have met these amazing people. I only wish more people in the world were like the few I�ve met through Phi Sigma Pi.
Thanks, Uriel, for pushing me to join. I really do owe you one, buddy!
Name: Ashley Blubaugh
Class: Omega - Spring '08
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
My attitude was always against greek life. I am an honor student and was raised with strict morals and my view was that these sorts of organizations degraded individuals and stunted their individual growth by making individuals conform to some sort of "ominous mold."
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
I felt that the brothers were really excited and enthusiastic for everything Phi Sigma Pi stands for. I received a really honest approach to everything which made me trust this organization because I felt everyone was being sincere and this helped me want to learn more. The info sessions are jam-packed with information which seems overwhelming, but they are really effective at telling you everything you need to know!
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
Yes, because I had the impression that greek organizations lied about their missions to make them seem more appealing. But this is not the case! Phi Sigma Pi is very open and honest about its organization because we have nothing to hide from you; we are a very positive organization and I could see this through their members.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes, everyone always answers your questions or concerns or directs you to someone who could.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Absolutely; if I didn't, I wouldnt know what I would do not knowing all of these friends I've met!
Name: Yang Li
Class: Chi - Spring '07
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
Before I joined PSP, my attitude towards fraternities and sororities was pretty neutral. I did know that I wanted to join a sorority. But for some reason I never actually got around to even looking into it. I guess that I was a good thing because I found something better than a sorority. I didn't know much about sororities, I did go to a information session during freshmen orientation about the greek life on campus. I thought it was really informative and it sounded like so much fun, so I knew in my the back of my mind that I wanted to join one. And when freshmen year actually came around, the people that lived on my floor were all PSPers. And they told me how awesome it was and how fun it is. So I thought why not go to an information session and see how much I actually like it.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
After the first information session, I thought this looks like a really cool organization, they seem to do a lot of things whether it was for the community or for PSP. If I remember correctly, I definitely got a general idea of what PSP was all about. Obviously it was enough to the spark my interest. It reminded me of high school again, the idea of a small community of friends within such a large school.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
I was pretty excited about joining this organization. When I first met the Brothers, I thought everyone was just so nice and I really wanted to be part of this organization. I think having known a few of the Brothers before I joined may have helped the transition a lot easier. I was a little nervous because I didn't want to get rejected. But other than those feelings, I felt pretty confident that this was the organization for me.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes! Our Initiate Advisor, Dave, was AWESOME. He was so great at explaining things to us and really being there for us. My Big was another resource that I felt was really there for me the whole time. Throughout the process I made some awesome friends that was just always there.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
Yes I definitely made the right decision in joining. I wouldn't do it any other way.
Name: Alon Rivel '
Class: Omega - Spring '08
1. Before joining Phi Sigma Pi, what was your attitude towards fraternities and sororities?
I hated them. I was so anti-frats it was nuts. I really went around judging people in fraternities saying they were just dumb and were wasting their time.
2. After attending the info sessions and rush events, how knowledgeable did you feel of Phi Sigma Pi and its laurels? Did you feel you needed more than just a few introductory meetings in order to really understand Phi Sigma Pi?
I understood some of it, but I totally needed more. I only felt like I really learned what PSP was during my last few weeks of initiation. You really learn as you grow with the other brothers and go to events and really become part of the family.
3. Were you apprehensive or nervous about joining an organization you hadn�t fully known or experienced yet?
Not really. I was more nervous that I wouldn't like it in the long run or that I would not fit in. The thing that is great about PSP is that there are so many different levels of people and types of people within the organization that you will always find someone to click with. It may take some time but before you know it you are so involved and in love with PSP that its hard to imagine life without it.
4. Did the members of Phi Sigma Pi do well in their job of guiding and informing you about the organization after you joined as an Initiate?
Yes. I LOVED my IA. Christine was so awesome and fun and really a great mentor. She made us feel very comfortable and to this day I am so glad she was my IA. Lacey was pretty amazing as RA as well. I wanted to be like them and be part of their community right when I met them.
5. Do you feel you made the right decision by joining Phi Sigma Pi?
YES! I did not realize until I went abroad how much I love PSP and how great it is to be part of such a dynamic group on campus. We have a lot of great times and I have met some of my closest friends through PSP. I am traveling the world and visiting fellow brothers around Europe and I never really feel alone. This organization will stay with me forever. It sounds corny but it is so true. PSP is my family.
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