Two different worlds on campus

The polarity between Greek and non-Greek students is a phenomenon that can be witnessed at every college campus.  

Oftentimes the people you live with become the group you immerse yourself with the most. However, even with this factor, the University of Idaho manages to have a large disconnect, even compared to other state schools.  

The Greek houses on campus recruit members before many of their peers have even arrived. Once a new member receives their bid, they usually move straight into the house, never experiencing the dorm life of other students. They choose a different path on day one; a path that will lead to a radically different life.  

The only time these two groups ever seem to meet is within their classes, extracurricular sports or clubs. Due to COVID-19 changing many of these activities, those opportunities hardly exist.  

With the rare possibility that Greek students get to meet new people, it is usually within their houses’ social circle. Likewise, dorm students do the same.  

I come from a state where first-year students living in a Greek house is highly unusual. I cannot help but notice how that one detail causes a divide in the Vandal community.  

My friends back home are close with many Greek and non-Greek students, managing to make connections their first year on campus thanks to their living situation. That short year of living together and sharing the same space changed their campus experience completely, giving them the chance to meet people they may never have crossed paths with otherwise.  

There is something to be said about the connections people make within their first year. It can dictate the rest of their college experience. I have lived in both the dorms and now a Greek house, I have experienced both sides. However, many of my friends on campus have never had that experience. Consequently, they face a limited social pool.  

To the students reading this, I encourage you to break from your social circles and pursue the few chances you get to meet new people this year, whether it be through online clubs or campus jobs. Ignore the stereotypes and titles that may hold you back. I have met so many extraordinary people in both Greek life and in the dorms.  

Whether someone wears their Greek letters on their chest or prefers a quieter way of living, treat others with kindness and be open to new social possibilities. You might find you have more in common than you thought.  

Dani Moore can be reached at [email protected].