Primary Recruitment for the Collegiate Panhellenic Council (CPC) is fast approaching! If your student has registered for Primary Recruitment, you might be wondering how you can best support her through this journey. Here is a quick guide to help you understand the process and empower your student as she navigates CPC recruitment August 17-24
Understanding the Recruitment Schedule
Recruitment is a dynamic process that consists of several rounds and other important events, each designed to help potential new members (PNMs) and sorority members get to know each other.
- Convocation I (August 17): Kicking off recruitment, Convocation I will take place virtually. During this time, PNMs will receive information about what to expect and important details they need to know about the week ahead. Here, your student will meet her recruitment counselors, also known as Rho Gammas. This is a great opportunity for PNMs to get acquainted with the process and ask any initial questions they might have.
- Early Move-In (August 18): PNMs living on campus will have the opportunity to move into their residence hall from 9 AM to 12 PM. Students will automatically be enrolled in this time slot if they indicated they are living on campus on their registration application. She does not need to reserve a move-in time through Residence Life. The student must be present to check in and pick up their keys.
- Convocation II (August 18): In the evening, PNMs will attend Convocation II, where your student will participate in our mandatory hazing-prevention workshop that emphasizes the university’s commitment to a safe and positive Greek life experience. Additionally, PNMs and their loved ones can visit our vendor fair immediately before, featuring local businesses that help support CPC recruitment.
- Go Greek Round (August 19): Also known as the Open House round, the Go Greek round will take place virtually. PNMs will meet with their recruitment counselors throughout the day and watch informational videos from each chapter to get a first impression and learn more about the values and traditions of each sorority. The Collegiate Panhellenic Council will also be hosting optional activities throughout the day to help PNMs get to know one another and get acquainted with Texas A&M’s campus.
- Philanthropy Round (August 20-21): In this round, PNMs will be able to visit houses in person to learn about the philanthropic efforts of each sorority. They will hear about the charitable causes that are important to each chapter and how they contribute to their community.
- Sisterhood Round (August 22): PNMs will delve deeper into the sisterhood aspect of each sorority. They will have the opportunity to connect with each chapter and learn about the unique ways they build bonds of sisterhood that unite each chapter.
- Preference Round (August 23): This final round is more intimate as PNMs visit up to two sororities. This is the final time that both sorority members and PNMs reflect on their mutual compatibility and the potential for a lifelong sisterhood.
- Bid Day (August 24): Bid Day marks the culmination of CPC recruitment as PNMs receive their bids (invitation to membership) from the sorority they matched. After accepting her bid, your student will celebrate at the sorority house with her new sisters.
How You Can Support Your Student
- Attend Parent Convocation. This will be held on August 18 and will be hosted by Fraternity and Sorority Life staff. This event is a valuable opportunity for parents and families to learn more about the recruitment process, ask questions, and gain insights that will help them better support their student. This year, the Parent and Family Convocation will take place in person at the same time as Convocation II. However, a virtual option will be available for those who need it. A Zoom link to Parent Convocation will be sent out via email to the information listed in your student’s registration form.
- Encourage Open Communication. Throughout the recruitment process, encourage your Aggie to communicate openly with you and her Rho Gammas about her experiences, feelings, and expectations. Your support and guidance can make a significant difference during this exciting and sometimes overwhelming week.
- Manage Expectations. Recruitment can be both exhilarating and challenging. Remind your student that every participant’s journey is unique, and the outcome is not a reflection of her worth. Encourage her to approach each round with an open mind and positive attitude.
- Provide Emotional Support. As emotions run high during recruitment, they are a source of comfort and encouragement. Whether she’s feeling excited, nervous, or unsure, reassure her that you are there to support her unconditionally.
- Respect Her Choices. Ultimately, her decisions are hers to make. Respect these choices and celebrate her independence and courage, regardless of the outcome.
Final Thoughts
Sorority recruitment is an incredible opportunity for your students to connect with a supportive community and build lifelong friendships. By understanding the process, offering unwavering support, and encouraging her to stay true to herself, you will empower her to make the most of this transformative experience. As she embarks on this journey, remember that your encouragement and positivity will be invaluable. Embrace this exciting time together and look forward to the enriching experiences that sorority life at Texas A&M has to offer.
For more information about the Collegiate Panhellenic Council, visit cpc.tamu.edu.
