How do YOU become a brother?

A.  Not exactly...  We are a fraternity in that we are a Greek letter organization, yet we are not a social fraternity.  We are a national organization with rituals, tradition, and a good sense of camaraderie and bonding among our members.  Service, however, is our primary focus.  At Grand Valley State University we are not associated with the Inter-fraternity Council, the Panhellenic Association, or the National Pan-Hellenic Council - though we welcome both Greeks and non-Greeks to join - we are actually part of the Service & Advocacy Council.

A.  Technically, yes, but it is extremely easy and not very similar to the rush you would participate in for the traditional Greek system.  During our "rush" period, we hold several events which are open to anyone interested in joining APO (these often include informational meetings, service projects, and fellowship events like a movie or game night).  It gives you a chance to get to know members of APO and see if it's something you'd like to be a part of.  There is no "bid" process -- anyone who wants to be a member can join.

A.  Your first semester in APO will be full of opportunities to learn about the organization and find your place in it.  That is the essence of the new member period.  You will undergo a pinning ceremony, and be assigned to a "big" -- an older APO member who will answer any questions you have and help you figure out the ins and outs of APO.

The new member period lasts anywhere from six to ten weeks.  You will attend weekly new member education classes, which will help you to get to know other people as well as the history and purpose of APO.  New members must complete a minimum of 12 hours of service.  At least seven 7 hours must be completed through chapter organized projects.  The new member class must organize and participate together in a service project.  Also during the new member period, each new member must attend a minimum of 1 general assembly meeting.  You are initiated as an active member at the conclusion of the new member period.

A.  No, absolutely not.  Hazing is against Grand Valley State University and Alpha Phi Omega policy.

A.  No.  We do not have an office on campus either.  We use many of the resources provided by the Student Organization Center (SOC), often holding committee meetings there.  Our chapter meetings take place in the larger rooms of the Kirkhof Center.

A.  Absolutely.  APO is open to any undergraduate student in good academic standing, and joining APO does not conflict with your ability to join or remain a member in a Greek house.

Alpha Phi Omega does have dues, but they are significantly less than other Greek organizations.  Dues for your first semester are roughly $80.  In 2008-2009, the fall semester dues for active members were $60 and the winter semester dues were $25.  You may have to pay small fees to participate in certain fellowship events.  Each semester we order T-shirts and other APO gear, so there would be a cost for that if you are interested.