Frequently Asked Questions
Aren't fraternities just like the ones portrayed in Animal House and on MTV?
Although the media portrays Greek life in a bad light, the stereotype could not be further from the truth. DTD is a value-based organization dedicated to the development of the character of its members and to foster lifelong friendships.
I am concerned about my grades. How will they be affected?
Typically, students who join DTD perform better academically after joining the fraternity. During pledging, new members learn valuable scholastic skills. The brotherhood is also a terrific resource as it spans almost every major and program. Upperclassmen are always willing to help your transition into college from helping you choose classes to studying with you.
Why should I join a fraternity?
There are plenty of reasons to join. Many people enjoy finding a place to belong at college. The fraternity can act as your "family" while you are away from home. Others enjoy the social aspect of making many new friends. Still other men join because they know it will help with their academics. In any case, being a member of DTD will enrich your college experience and help you develop into a man.
How much time will the fraternity take up?
Like any other organization,DTD will require a certain amount of your time. Unlike most other associations however, the more time devoted to the fraternity, the better it will become as a reflection on you. Also, the National Pan-Hellenic Conference and the North American Interfraternity Conference research has shown that the more involved a college student is, the better his or her chance is of graduating and report a greater satisfaction with his or her college experience. Overall, Delta Tau Delta will teach you how to balance your academic work with your fraternity involvement in addition to your other commitments.
Are new members hazed?
Hazing is the antithesis of brotherhood and greatly contrasts our Mission Statement and Values. As such, DTD is strictly opposed to hazing in any form. The activities of new members consist of learning the history of the fraternity and how it operates, building the friendships between the new members and the brothers, honing leadership and academic skills, strengthening the community through service and philanthropy, and training to be a viable brother upon initiation.
How much will joining a fraternity cost?
Unfortunately, it is impossible for the fraternity to function without money. Therefore, dues are charged to the members to support the various activities of the brotherhood. There are a few one time costs during the first year, but overall, DTD's dues are less than those of the other fraternities on campus.
What if my parents don't want me to join?
Invite your parents to look at this website, or any other material you receive, to learn more about DTD. You can find even more information from our national website (www.delts.org). If need be, have a brother talk to your parents over the phone or in person to answer any questions your parents may have.
Alright, I am interested in joining. What do I do now?
Even if you are still unsure, there is still time. Carnegie Mellon's official Rush Period takes place during the second two weeks of each semester. The end of the Rush Period is Bid Night, which is when fraternities officially ask new members to join. In addition, DTD practices year-round recruitment. Feel free to stop by the house at any time. Remember, brothers are always available if you have any questions. The pledging period follows your entrance into the fraternity. It is a period in which you will learn everything you need to know about being a Delt through weekly meetings, retreats, formal and informal discussions, community service projects, and other brotherhood-building activities. At the end of the pledging program, new members are initiated into the fraternity and become full, active brothers.
I have another question that wasn't answered here. What do I do?
If you still have a question, feel free to talk about it with a brother. Or, if you prefer, send an email to the chapter by using the link in the contact menu located at the top of the page.
Letters of Distinction.
Lives of Excellence.