1. Academics
Myth: Fraternity men have low GPAs.
Fact: The average GPA of fraternity men is typically higher than the all-men's average GPA for numerous reasons. First of all, the reason you came to the University of Toronto is to further your education, and the University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter acknowledges that. A fraternity will not stand in your way of getting an education. We support everyone's academic goals. An Academic Chair maintains and monitors everyone's grades and academic standing and pledges will have ample time to study. Most maintain their grades while pledging, while some even improve their GPA due to the time management skills they acquire during the process. It depends on the individual's study habits and time management skills. It is easier to create study groups and better study habits when you register for classes with your brothers, and it even adds a little friendly competition for work and test scores.
2. Finances
Myth: Fraternities are SO expensive. They can't be worth it.
Fact: We are a non-profit organization; therefore all the money you put in goes back to you in other meaningful ways. Member dues go towards brotherhood events, exchanges, formals and service events. As university students, we too understand the difficulties finances. We would never want money to be the reason you can't join, that's not what we're about. Although fraternities may appear costly, there is a much higher benefit to those costs.
3. Social
Myth: Fraternities are only about the parties.
Fact: We party hard because we work equally as hard. ALL brothers actively participate in community service, as well as fundraising activities, and events, which promote Asian awareness. Our brothers work hard in school, participate in other organizations, and many also have a part-time job. All parties we throw are for fundraising purposes only, and we promote them heavily; therefore, people tend to assume that is all we do.
Plus, there is no better way for you to make friends around campus. Being in a new environment is a very scary experience, but by rushing the University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter, much of that discomfort is reversed and you can start feeling at home once again. The University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter gives you a place to call home, and will meet thousands of people through different events and activities. Feeling left out and without friends is a horrible feeling, so jump right in to the social life!
4. Networking
Myth: N/A
Fact: Becoming a brother of the University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter is such a great way to meet people and become involved around both the campus and the community. The brothers of Lambda Phi Epsilon will meet professionals from all different careers and start boosting their connections and make finding a job an easier task.
5. Alcohol and Smoking
Myth: I will feel pressured into drinking and smoking when I join a fraternity.
Fact: University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter has strict alcohol management policies that are strongly enforced. We never encourage our members to smoke or drink. It is an individual's personal choice. Many of our own members are non-smokers/drinkers. Joining a fraternity is an individual's decision. The rush process is an evaluation for a potential new member to decide if they want to pledge a fraternity or not.
6. Zero Tolerance for Hazing
Myth: I will be hazed and be forced to do a bunch of stupid things that could harm myself.
Fact: This is a new era in fraternity life, and it is a lot different than several decades ago. Both the national board and the University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter have a zero tolerance for hazing in any form
The brothers of the University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter are also encouraged to join other organizations on campus, as the benefits of being involved elsewhere on campus are felt by the chapter as well as the other organizations.
7. Community Service
Myth: N/A
Fact: The University of Toronto Lambda Phi Epsilon Chapter does not focus on only partying, instead we promote academic achievement, a sense of family, and we strive to give back to the community through various philanthropy events. Such events include the Blood Drive, Bone Marrow Drive, Rely for Life and much more.