| Alumnus/Alumni - An initiated member who has graduated from the university. | Big Brother - This older member serves as a resource, role model, and problem solver for the new member. |
| Bid - A formal invitation to join a fraternity or sorority. | Bid Day - The last day of recruitment which includes activities at the lodge. A huge party the same night kicks off the beginning of pledgeship. |
| Formal Recruitment/Rush - The major period of time set aside by the Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils for meeting potential new members. | Informal/Open Recruitment - Recruitment period conducted at various times during the year. |
| Initiation - A ceremony that brings a new member into full membership. | Interfraternity Council (IFC) - The governing body over all fraternities. |
| Legacy - A man whose father, brother, or in some cases grandfather is an initiated member of a fraternity. Legacy stipulations differ for each fraternity. | Pledge - A potential new member who has accepted the bid of a fraternity. |
| Pledge Educator - The officer who coordinates the education for the fraternity's new members. | Pledge Meetings - Special meetings which may be held each week for the new members; in addition to learning the history of the fraternity, new members may hear speakers on study skills, leadership, and other important issues. |
