This allows them to learn what it takes to be an active member of the fraternity before they initiate and it allows them to immediately step into positions of leadership in the chapter. The pledgeship lasts until the end of the first semester. When we return from Christmas break, we initiate the new members into the fraternity. Plans are in the works to shorten the pledgeship, initiating the members during the first semester. Things that the pledge class learns during this period include national and local history, the greek alphabet, the chapter organization and activities, the meaning of some of the fraternities symbolism, the purpose of the fraternity, important documents in the founding of the fraternity, traditions and customs, fraternal responsibility and obligations, and more.
Pledges also take part in many activities during pledgeship.
This is also the beginning of the Theta Scholarship program. They are responsible for all aspects of it, including hiring entertainment, decorating, publicity, risk management, registration, etc. The pledge class also traditionally takes on one house project designed to improve or add value to the Theta house. Past projects include building the grill, building the deck, buying and installing billiard and foos ball tables, making repairs, and others. House projects enstill respect for the chapter's house and promote its responsible use.