Rush Week is an exciting time in every Greek hopeful’s life, and we at the Crocodile want to make sure you take full advantage of it. With that being said, there are many common mistakes that those not familiar with the Greek lifestyle make during Rush Week. To save yourself some time, money and crushing embarrassment, here are 8 things you need to know about Rush Week.
- DO NOT WEAR THE COLOR GREEN
One of the most frequent mistakes made during Rush Week is one of the easiest to avoid. In Greek mythology, green symbolizes the God Gredos, who sold out the entire city of Athens to an enemy army for two goats and $30. Ever since, the color green has never been worn at any Greek function. Ever.
- BRING A PIE
It is customary to bake a pie for each house you visit as a gesture of goodwill. Be warned; worthy presidents can tell the difference between homemade and store-bought. Remember the old adage: “No pie, no bid.”
- EAT A LOAF OF BREAD BEFORE YOU RUSH
Bread was a staple food in Greek times, and consuming an entire loaf of bread before rushing will bring you good luck. We suggest wheat, and don’t you even think about cutting the crust off each slice.
- PRACTICE THROWING NERF FOOTBALLS
It’s a well-known fact that Greeks love tossing the good ole Nerf football around the house. Get ahead of the game by strengthening your arm. Work on your technique, throwing off your back foot and tightening up that spiral.
- DO NOT DRINK ANY COCA-COLA
If you want to prove your loyalty to both your Frat and your school, you would never let any gross Coca-Cola products pass your lips. You’re in Gator country, you drink refreshing Pepsi products and Gatorade, end of story.
- ALWAYS USE YOUR LEFT HAND TO SHAKE HANDS
If a current fraternity member tries to shake hands with his right hands, HE IS TESTING YOU. Insist that you shake hands with your left, even though you are both right-handed. He will be impressed by your knowledge of traditional Greek culture.
- DO NOT LOOK THE HOUSE DAD IN THE EYE
The house dad, for those of you that do not know, legally adopts every single member sworn in. Just like real fathers, the house dad demands your respect, and making eye contact too early will cause him to believe you’re insubordinate.
- WHEN IN DOUBT, TELL PEOPLE YOUR NAME IS BRIAN
If your name is longer than two syllables, it is no longer your name. Your name is now Brian. The houses will be loud with music, conversation and inspiration, and science tells us that if your name is three syllables or longer, people will not physically be able to hear it. Good luck, Brian.