While many students can't wait for their chance to get a bid from a fraternity or sorority, there are many others who choose to stay independent and away from the Greek scene.
"I don't think people should be lined up, judged, labeled and then told whether they are accepted into something they have to pay to be in," said Rachel Edgar, senior in industrial and systems engineering.
With 28 fraternities and 17 sororities on campus, students have a wide field to choose from if they receive a bid.
"As a freshman, I thought about doing it, but now, because of the requirements, I just wouldn't be able to keep up with it," said Bethany Bertovic, senior in communications.
The thought of having other requirements to fulfill beyond those expected with school or work seems to be a common turnoff among independent students.
"I chose to be non-Greek because of the cost associated with joining a fraternity, as well as the time dedicated to pledgeship," said Sam Thompson, senior in materials engineering.
One of the requirements that may shy potential pledges away is the cost.
In general, a student will pay about $1,600 her first year in a sorority.
For fraternities, the cost can vary, but can reach upward of $3,000.
Time constraints may also fall on the list of reasons why some students chose to be non-Greek.
"I decided to be in The Auburn University Marching Band as a freshman and didn't really have time for anything else," Edgar said. "Also, I didn't feel like I would fit too well in the Greek system."
Although not as prominent, some independent students feel there is still a split between them and the Greek students.
"My best friend was in a fraternity, and I hung out with all of these guys all the time," Thompson said. "My whole view on the Greek versus independent thing is that there are a lot of people who think because you're Greek you can only hang out with certain people."
Even though some students choose not to be involved in Greek life, they still recognize the importance of having it on a campus of Auburn's size where it can be difficult to find a niche.
"I think the Greek system at AU is something that is necessary, and it serves a good purpose because it encourages students to get involved in organizations on campus," Thompson said.
According to the Auburn Greek Life website, the positive benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority include networking, leadership opportunities and philanthropy.
"Greek Life definitely forces you to meet a certain group of people through social events and formals," Thompson said. "I feel that independents don't usually have access to that type of atmosphere, so independents hang with other independents."
The "college experience" can change dramatically depending on if you are Greek, Edgar said.
"The experience is completely different," Edgar said. "Whether you are non-Greek or Greek determines how you meet friends, what music you are exposed to, where you hang out and what your priorities are."
For Edgar, the Greek atmosphere is not one that stimulates individualism and personal growth.
"I've always felt like college is a place to figure out who you really are," Edgar said. "I feel the Greek system would have stunted this growth and made it impossible for me to enjoy my college experience at Auburn."
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