Thank you for your interest in FarmHouse Fraternity at South Dakota State University. Recruitment of new members is very important to us, and we are always seeking new members who are motivated both socially and scholastically. People often have questions about FarmHouse or fraternity life in general, so here are some answers to questions often asked by new recruits.

What is FarmHouse?

FarmHouse is a men's collegiate fraternity founded in 1905 at the University of Missouri. Today, we have 33 chapters both in the United States and Canada. The South Dakota State Chapter was founded in 1966. The ideals and goals of our fraternity can best be described in the statement of our Object.

The Object

"The object of our fraternity is to promote good fellowship, to encourage studiousness,
and to inspire its members in seeking the best in their chosen lines of study, as well as in life.
Progress shall mark our every step. The spirit of congeniality shall reign at all times,
and every member shall be honest with himself, as well as with his brothers.
Men elected to our membership are considered to be of good moral character, to be high in scholarship,
to have the capacity for meeting and making friends, and to give promise of service to his fellow men,
and to the world. To be and become such may at times require sacrifices of time, pleasures, and comforts."

How do I join?

Our formal "Rush Week" is at the beginning of every semester. During Rush, we hold events for potential members such as a grill out, trap shoot, poker night, and more. This gives potential members the opportunity to check out our house and get acquainted with the active members. These events are highly recommended for those interested in joining.

What is Pledge Class?

After Rush, we will hand out invitations to potential members for Pledge Class, which meets once a week for the semester. Pledge Class is designed to educate new members on the history of FarmHouse and the ideals of our fraternity. Pledge Class is required to become an active member. New members are moved to "active" status the following semester assuming they have met the requirements for activation which includes a minimum semester GPA of 2.4.

Can I get out of the dorms to live in the house?

Yes, housing releases can be provided for active members who are freshmen/sophomores to leave the residence halls and move into FarmHouse. Our house is located a few blocks east of campus across from McCrory Gardens. Living in the house includes 2 meals a day, 5 days a week, prepared by our House Cook; a computer lab with copier, printers, and fax; wireless internet; and Dish Network television.

I've heard that fraternity houses are a drunken disaster, is yours?

Fraternities have fallen into many stereotypes, but FarmHouse holds itself to a higher standard. FarmHouse is a dry fraternity, meaning that alcohol cannot be present at any time in the house. This does not mean that its members cannot consume alcohol, only that alcohol cannot be consumed on the property. This allows us to keep our house in great shape, and avoids disturbing those who choose not to drink.

How will FarmHouse benefit me?

The motto of FarmHouse is "Builder of Men". The goal of our fraternity is to develop our members intellectually, socially, physically, and spiritually. Members have the advantage of aiding each other in scholastics by forming study groups or having older members mentor others that are taking classes that they have also been through. We frequently plan social events with other fraternities and groups on campus to extend your personal social network. When intramural sports are in session, FarmHouse teams are always out for competition. Weekly bible studies and church groups are also important to our fraternity. But most of all, FarmHouse is brotherhood, friendships that will last a lifetime.

I have more questions, who do I talk to?

If you would like more information about FarmHouse, please fill out the Prospective Member Information Sheet.

Also, feel free to contact me at any time.

Tim Janke

Vice President of Recruitment
tmjanke@jacks.sdstate.edu