Epsilon Class Testimonials, Part I

Editor's Note: The following are excerpts from some of the Epsilon Class testimonials, reflecting on their experience as a new member of Beta Theta Pi.

Will Murray '13
At first I didn’t want to join a fraternity, because of all the bad stereotypes, and I thought that I wouldn’t get in. After [my suitemate] got into Beta [in the fall], he kept raving about how much he liked it and all the guys. I decided to check out the informal recruitment of Beta Theta Pi. At first I was hesitant because I didn’t feel like I fit in, but then I realized that I did.

Rich Mazzola '13
My experience with Beta Theta Pi has been a great one filled with an array of new friendships and memories, and that was achieved after only a couple months. Understand that before I came here I knew about Beta and some of the people in it. But what I did not know is what Beta stood for, what they valued and set as their morals. I did not want to rush into an organization; I like to see how they are around campus and see what people think of them. The overall stereotype I received about Beta was these are the nicest, most well-kept men I will ever meet. I went to wing night to meet all the brothers. I never met so many different people with different interests, understandings, and characteristics – they all blended together so well. Talking to each brother a little bit more I realized what type of organization this is. It is one for others but at the same time sticking together which makes it fun.

Ethan Hockett '13
My experiences of being a Beta thus far have been very good. Since I have joined Beta I have made many new friends who I know will be friends for life. I have enjoyed my experience with all of the guys. The older guys have been awesome.

Enzo Miceli '12
So, I'm officially a Beta, and it feels fulfilling. Transferring into John Carroll, I never imagined joining a fraternity, nor did I think highly of them. Hearing stereotypes about what people went through just to become a member (such as being hazed), I was totally against becoming involved.

From the moment I met these men, I felt as though I belonged. The six other men I went through the process with are a great group to be around. For some reason, we all get along really well and from the beginning, felt the brotherhood bond.

Not only was joining Beta a great decision, but the pledge process was a life lesson for me. I learned that just because a stereotype exists about a group or person, doesn't mean it is necessarily true. Instead of agreeing with the stereotype and staying away, learn more about the specific group or person before making a decision for yourself.

Chris Saniuk '12
I never thought about joining a fraternity in the past, but I am extremely glad that I went to the recruitment events back in January to see what Beta was all about. It’s shocking to think about everything that has happened in the last 8 weeks, from induction to pledge class and the retreat. It seems like just yesterday I received my bid; now it’s already April and I am a roll number 53. I look forward to what Beta has to offer in the upcoming years.