Recruitment FAQ
1. Does Lambda Chi Alpha haze?
Hazing is a thing of the past. Lambda Chi Alpha was the first fraternity to abolish pledgeship in 1972, and has since denounced hazing in all forms. From day one, members fully experience Lambda Chi Alpha membership and take part in every aspect of brotherhood as Associate Members. Along the way, you will learn about our history and values and discover what it means to lead with loyalty and purpose.
2. Why become a part of Greek Life at Rensselaer?
Greek Life at Rensselaer is truly something special, no matter which fraternity you join. The real value comes from the lifelong friendships, the strong network of brothers, and the way it helps make your experience at Rensselaer uniquely your own. While Greek Life can seem intimidating at first, it is important not to let that hold you back, as its true value often becomes clear once you are a part of it.
3. Why become a part of Lambda Chi Alpha?
At Lambda Chi Alpha, we focus on finding men who want to grow, lead, and make a positive impact on the world around them. We work to build true brotherhood through education, leadership, and genuine friendships. We take pride in maintaining a no-hazing policy and ensuring that no one is ever placed in uncomfortable situations. Our chapter is strong at Rensselaer because of our reputation for creating a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment for everyone we meet. Come experience it for yourself!
The benefits of joining go far beyond social events. One of the most meaningful aspects is the friendships you form and the memories you create with people who become a true support system throughout your time at Rensselaer. Lambda Chi Alpha also emphasizes personal growth by giving members real opportunities to lead, take responsibility, and contribute to something larger than themselves. Being part of a close-knit brotherhood means you are always surrounded by people who have your back, whether you need help, encouragement, or just someone to spend time with. Overall, joining Lambda Chi Alpha offers an experience that helps shape who you are and leaves a lasting impact well beyond college.
4. What are the benefits of joining?
There are 950 living alumni of the Epsilon-Eta Zeta of Lambda Chi Alpha. Lambda Chi Alpha has nearly 300,000 alumni worldwide. Some famous alumni include Harry Truman, Kenny Chesney, Todd Graves (founder of Raising Cane’s), Bill Rasmussen (founder of ESPN), Woody Paige (ESPN), Larry Brown, Rick Pitino, Will Forte, John Quiñones, and more.
5. How many alumni are there from our chapter?
While fraternity activities are an important part of the experience, balance remains a top priority. Members are expected to attend key weekly commitments, such as chapter meetings, but there is no expectation to be involved around the clock. We actively encourage members to manage their time effectively and maintain a healthy balance between academics, campus involvement, and fraternity activities and responsibilities.
6. What’s the time commitment?
Dues are typically $1,000 per semester. There are no dues charged during the Associate Member semester. During your first semester as a fully initiated brother, a one-time $112 association fee and a $235 initiation fee will be added.
7. How much are dues?
Dues support many of the programs our chapter runs, including recruitment, philanthropy and volunteer service projects, social mixers, and brotherhood events. Because these activities are already covered, any additional out-of-pocket costs beyond dues are minimal.
8. What do the dues pay for?
Yes. We offer several options to help make membership accessible. Each year, our chapter awards a scholarship to a brother, and members also have the opportunity to work off a portion of their dues through house projects throughout the semester. We are always willing to work with individuals to set up a payment plan that fits their situation. We never want finances to be the deciding factor in joining, as the long-term value of the experience goes far beyond the cost.
9. Is there any financial support if I can’t pay?
The Chapter House accommodates 25 brothers, with a balanced mix of sophomores through seniors living in the house each year. Housing spots are assigned through a lottery system to ensure the process is fair and equitable for everyone. Regardless of whether a brother lives in the house, all members have full access to the chapter house at all times and are encouraged to spend time there.