Q: Why join TKE?
A: Through our membership development and education programs, each member of TKE is provided with the resources and tools that will help him achieve his personal best in all areas of college life and prepares him for success after graduation. Our men embody the principles promoted by the Fraternity and are poised for success. they belong to TKE... "The fraternity for Life."
Q: Aren't fraternites just like the one shown in the movie "Animal House"?
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: Don't fraternities promote excessive drinking?
A: Absolutely not. Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with the ideals of Tau Kappa Epsilon. Every individual member and chapter is expected to uphold federal, state, county, and city laws, as well as university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.
Q: I'm concerned about my/my son's grades, what impact will fraternity membership have?
A: Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Tau Kappa Epsilon will assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs, which may include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. Moreover, your son will be able to access the network of brothers who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors. While Tau Kappa Epsilon is concerned about the academic achievement of its members, your son is still ultimately responsible for utilizing the resources made available.
Q: What about pledging or hazing?
A: Tau Kappa Epsilon does not condone any form of hazing and is committed to a member education period which instills a sense of responsibility and commitment to the new members. This period will assist your son in overcoming some of his concerns about success in college.
Q: Who is actually in charge of the fraternity?
A: Members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the local chapter. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors.
Q: Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?
A: each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one time expenses are assessed. If housing is offered, fraternity lodging and meals are competitive with other housing options. It is also important to note that each individual chapter usually offers a variety of payment plans. For more information regarding the fees charged by the International fraternity, please visit tke.org. Our semester fees are $350 a semester and $15 more if you live out of the house. This does not include a candidate fee or an initiation fee.
Q: Being in a fraternity sounds like it takes a lot of time.
A: 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 grater satisfaction with their college experience. Through his involvement with Tau Kappa Epsilon, your son will learn how to balance his academic, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.