Each fraternity or sorority has its own character, but all have similar programs. They encourage academic achievement, community service, the development of leadership skills and strong friendships. The education period following rush is limited to six weeks, but can be as short as two. This time is used by fraternities for brotherhood development and to teach new recruits about the history, management and ritual of the chapter. While a serious time commitment, pledging should not interfere with classes or study time.
Every chapter has a scholarship program that includes study hours for new members.
Vanderbilt University prohibits hazing during this pledge period. There are three important components in the membership intake process. Each affiliate organization implements its own membership intake process.