The Effect of Greek Society Chapter Involvement on Academic Achievement

Indianapolis, IN

There have been previous studies that focus on finding the differences between academic achievement between individuals that belong to Greek organizations and ones that do not. Baker (2008) found that involvement in college activities has a positive impact on academic performance. Studies also find that students who are members of Greek organizations have a higher level of leadership and involvement than those of other students (Pascarella 1996), but lower academic performance. The focus of this study is to examine the influence an individual's involvement in a Greek organization has on academic achievement. A survey was administered to Butler University students that belong to Greek organizations during their chapter meetings in order to receive a high response rate. The survey asked individuals to report on their involvement in the Greek activities, occupation of leadership positions, involvement in organizations and clubs outside of their chapter house to measure students' level of involvement. Students were also asked questions about their academic performance. It is hypothesized that the greater the level of involvement in one's chapter, the higher the academic performance.