FAQs

What is a sorority?

A sorority commonly refers to a social club comprised solely of females which was initially paired with a fraternity. In the case of Zeta Tau Alpha, we are a fraternity. This is because we were founded as a separate entity from any all men's fraternity as a sisterhood. A sorority is a group of women who adhere themselves to the same standards and high-achieving goals. We strengthen one another through philanthropy, social events, and in every aspect of our lives. A sorority serves to empower women to be strong and independent.

 

What is deferred recruitment?

Deferred recruitment is when a school decides recruitment will be held in the Spring, or the second semester, rather than in the Fall, or the first semester. This allows the girls time to build friendships and make more knowledgeable decisions about which sisterhood is best for them.

 

Why ZTA?

That's tough because there isn't just one answer. Each sorority has its own particular personality, and every girl has her place. Most ZTAs would answer that they chose Zeta because the girls are genuine. And not just genuine, but passionate, exuberant, loving, unique, loyal, smart, understanding, faithful, and supportive. There isn't just one thing that made anyone go Zeta. But, when you know, you know. You know?

 

What is the minimum GPA required for recruitment?

We require that freshmen, sophomores, and juniors have a minimum GPA of 3.00  in order to receive a bid from our chapter.

 

Does Zeta recognize legacies?

    The term “legacy” will continue to recognize the special relationship between a legacy and a ZTA mother, sister or grandmother. While we will continue to cherish the connection a legacy may have to ZTA, it will not play a role in membership selection. At this time, almost all NPC organizations have made modifications to—, or in most cases, eliminated—their own legacy policies. These ongoing changes will provide a more equitable recruitment experience for all potential new members across all campuses.

 

How does Zeta help you grow in your faith? 

    Zeta is blessed with a community of believers who encourage each other to pray, be vulnerable with one another, and grow closer to God. Through small groups, bible studies, and our chaplain, Manning Thrower, Zetas always have a safe place to be with our Lord. 

 

How can I keep up my grades, while meeting the obligations of a sorority membership? 

    In Zeta, we pride ourselves on achieving academic excellence. Our chapter has several programs and resources that members may use to ensure that they excel academically. To highlight a few, we have GroupMes organized by major so that girls may provide class and teacher recommendations. Our Textbook Exchange Program allows girls to checkout textbooks donated by older members to save money on renting or buying them. Lastly, new members have mandatory study hours to ensure that they do not fall behind in their school work as they adjust to the new opportunities that membership in Zeta offers.

 

Do I need a recommendation letter?

Recommendation letters and MIS forms are not required for a bid in ZTA, but they are highly encouraged. MIS Forms can be completed online through the Sisters Only section of zetataualpha.org, and will require a log-in.

 

How do I get a recommendation letter/MIS form?

While some chapters allow active members to write recommendation letters/fill out MIS forms, ZTA does not. A great place to look is with your hometown's Panhellenic organization or individual alumnae chapters. If your hometown doesn't have a Panhellenic group, then networking is the best way to go about getting recommendation letters. Teachers, family friends, relatives, etc. are all great places to look for recommendations. If you are a legacy, start by asking your mother, sister, aunt or grandmother if they know of anyone in their chapter who would be willing to write a letter. If they are a ZTA, they should be able to submit a letter of recommendation via the national website at zetataualpha.org. For additional information and/or questions, please contact our Recommendation Chair at buzetarec@gmail.com.

 

I'm a nursing major... can I still participate in recruitment?

Of course! We have many nursing majors within our chapter. While you will only be at our main Baylor campus for two years, you remain an active member of our chapter at nursing school without jeopardizing your alumnae status. We have a dedicated community of sisters in nursing school, so there are plenty of opportunities to stay involved and connected! You are also free to visit us back in Waco at any time!

 

Isn't your philanthropy Susan G. Komen?

No. While we have worked in the survivors' tent with Susan G. Komen's Race for the Cure in the past, we are no longer affiliated with them on a national level. Our three national partners are the NFL, Bright Pink, and the American Cancer Society. Our philanthropy is 'breast cancer education and awareness.' This is made possible because of the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation. This foundation provides means and services to our national partners across the nation as well as any local affiliations. The ZTA Foundation has collected over $24,000 so far this fiscal year from our chapter fundraising efforts. Our largest fundraising event is “Big Man On Campus,” a male beauty pageant and talent show that features a variety of members from different Baylor organizations.

 

Dues are expensive. What do I do?

We have many of our girls who pay their own dues. They do this by working hard, applying for Greek life scholarships (yes, they exist!), and maintaining good budgeting skills. Dues also fluctuate based on apparel a member chooses to purchase. While some t-shirts are required, we make sure that these are not expensive and provide help where we can!

 

Can I be a student-athlete and a sorority woman?

Of course! We have had several members of our chapter be members of the Baylor Spirit Teams, Baylor Athletics, and Baylor Club Athletics. While this requires time management, our girls are able to fully enjoy both experiences. Be sure to speak with your coach or sponsor prior to recruitment and meet with your New Member Coordinator within the first week to discuss your scheduling.

 

I'm an upperclassman. Should I give up on recruitment?

Of course not! While most groups tend to take fewer sophomores and juniors, we base who we take on their personality and fit with the chapter. Be sure to attend Panhellenic Previews, Late Night, and any other Panhellenic events in order to get to know the women in each group.

 

What is a Gamma Chi? Is that a small sorority?

No. A Gamma Chi is a guide to recruitment. She is a Panhellenic woman who is disaffiliated for one full semester in order to guide you and your friends through the recruitment process without bias.Your Gamma Chi group is the group you will begin recruitment with. Your Gamma Chi is another resource available to you to answer any questions about recruitment that you may have.

 

Why do you sometimes write Zeta without the 'e'?

ZTA are the Greek letters Zeta, Tau, and Alpha. This is the official name of our women's fraternity. "Zeta" is the nickname of our social club. We usually abbreviate Zeta Tau Alpha to ZTA or call it by its nickname for efficiency.

 

If I'm a legacy for another sorority, does that mean I can't be a different sorority?

Of course not! While your mother, sister, aunt, or other female relatives would be ecstatic for you to follow in her footsteps, that by no means limits your choices. Every chapter is different at every school and can even change in personality over time. Go wherever you feel most supported!

 

Is hazing real?

Unfortunately, yes. However, there is a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for it within our chapter and with Zeta Tau Alpha nationally. Under no circumstances should a new member ever feel anything but love from initiated members.