Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Women's Fraternity/Sorority?
Women's Fraternities, otherwise known as sororities, are national or international sisterhoods with chapters at accredited colleges and universities. Sororities offer young women the opportunity to develop professional, "real life" skills - the skills you will not learn in a classroom.Does AOII haze?
Absolutely not. Western Michigan University has a zero hazing policy for all of its registered student organizations and we strictly follow that policy. "Hazing" by WMU's definition is any activity that causes embarrassment, physical or emotional fatigue, or above average amounts of mental stress. We believe that sisterhood is not about forcing our new members to do activities to "prove themselves". Sisterhood is about acceptance of who you are and giving you the support that you need to make the most of your college experience.How much of a time commitment is AOII?
Most of that answer depends on you. We have once-a-week meetings during the school year that you will attend, as well as recruitment events and 15 hours of community service each semester. If you decide to become more involved, you have the opportunity to run for numerous leadership positions within the chapter and participate in events such as formals, semiformals, Greek Week, sisterhood activities and more.Do you pay anything to be a member of AOII?
Of course we all believe that we could not pay enough for our experience or our sisters, but yes, every sorority member at Western Michigan University pays dues. We are completely open regarding all of our new member dues, active member costs, and the costs of living in the chapter house. If you would like to obtain a current financial sheet, you can simply contact our chapter president or chapter treasurer whose contact information is located under the "contacts" link of this website.If I join, do I get to live in the chapter house? What do the costs of living include?
As an initiated member, you have the obligation to live in the chapter house until the house reaches capacity. We pay rent, just as you would in an apartment, but built into our rent are also the costs of our chef, cleaning service, laundry facilities, wireless Internet, landscape services, and cable television. The house has several common areas, which include a study lounge and a guest bedroom.I am worried that joining AOII will take time away from my academics. Will I still have time for my schoolwork?
Of course! AOII recognizes that you are first and foremost a student, and takes many steps to support you in being a successful student at WMU. In fact, every girl who is on our executive board is required to hold weekly study hours and maintain a minimum GPA of a 2.75. To review a copy of our Academic Plan, click here.
If I am in AOII, can I still be involved in other organizations at WMU?
Absolutely! Many of our sisters are also involved in other student organizations and have jobs on and off campus. We want you to get the most out of your experience as a bronco and AOII will only support you in your efforts to get more involved.