Alpha Gamma Chapter...since 1924

F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:    Who is actually in charge of the fraternity?

A:    Fraternity members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors. In addition, most fraternities are part of a national fraternity organization which offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Professional staff from the college and university are also employed to assist and monitor the activities of fraternities. As you can see, a variety of individuals oversee the operations of the fraternity.

Q:    I’m concerned about my son’s grades–what impact would fraternity membership have?

A:    The Alpha Gamma Chapter at the University of Florida recently posted the highest Fraternity GPA at the University of Florida. Our outstanding performance can be attributed to the quality of men recruited and the accommodations the house has to promote a studious atmosphere, such as a computer lab and a study room. Internet access is also provided to each room. For brothers who want pure solitude, libraries are only a few blocks away. Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Fraternities assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs which might include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. Your son can access the network of fraternity members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors. While fraternities are concerned about the academic achievement of their members, your son is still ultimately responsible for utilizing the resources made available.

Q:    The Basic Expectations talk about alcohol. What is it really like in the fraternity?

A:    Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with fraternity ideals. All fraternities are expected to uphold state, county, and city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol. In addition, most are not allowed to purchase alcohol for members. The days of large quantities of alcohol at a social function are gone. Instead, you’ll find fraternity members participating in alcohol-free social activities like moonlight bowling, dinner exchanges, and lip sync contests. Students who choose not to drink will know that it’s ok and feel comfortable with their decision.

Q:    Aren’t fraternities just like the one shown in the movie?

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:    Doesn’t it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?

A:    Each fraternity is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. After those initial payments are made, your son’s only expense will be his regular dues and room and board fees. Fees are assessed per semester. There are two plans; live-out and live-in. The bill can be paid in one lump sum at the beginning of the semester, or in three installment payments over the semester. The rent includes room, prepared meals, internet, cable, parking space, and activities. Current fees (including room and board, activities, intra-murals and national fees) are less than the same total for room and board alone in the dorms.

Q:    What is the house like?

A:    50 person house Full dining services Complete Library and Study File Quiet hours from 11 PM to 8 AM Computers: -2 ethernet hookups in each room -Wireless internet access throughout whole house. The best way to find out is to stop by for a visit. We are always open to show you around.

Q:    Is there any hazing?

A:    Alpha Gamma Rho does not condone hazing, and is one of a few fraternities that does not haze.

The Motto is “If it’s required of a freshmen, it must be required of a senior.”

All duties and responsibilities are shared equally among the members. Alpha Gamma Chapter even goes one step further. All new members are paired with an upperclassman mentor, referred to as a ‘Big Brother’ to help them with any questions about student life. An orientation, titled ‘membership development’ is also required for underclassmen to make a smooth transition to undergraduate living.

Q:    Does being in a fraternity take a lot of time?

A:    Each member chooses the amount of involvement in the chapter. The only required time commitment is a house duty that normally takes an hour to complete each week. 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 fraternity involvement, your son will learn how to balance his academic, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Q:    What if I am not a student in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences?

A:    Alpha Gamma Rho recruits students who have some connection to the life sciences. A prospective member normally meets the criteria by being raised on a farm, pursuing a life sciences degree, or having related work experience or goals in agriculture or natural resources.

Q:    What is AGR going to do for me that another organization won’t?

A:    AGR strives to build better men during their transition from a student to a productive, working adult. The fraternity provides many opportunities to improve communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Those who have graduated from Alpha Gamma chapter would probably say ask not what AGR can do for you but what you can do for AGR.”

Q:    What kind of resources are available after I graduate?

A:    As an alumnus of Alpha Gamma Chapter you will have access to a large network of Alpha Gamma Rho alumni.