Alpha Kappa Psi selects its new pledge class at the beginning of each
semester during a competitive recruitment, more commonly referred to as rush.
So, what IS rush?
Rush is a five-day process focused on getting to know you while learning more about your skillset and unique qualities. Each day helps us become further acquainted with you in order to see if we can be a good fit for one another. We look at membership as a mutually beneficial relationship. Each member furthers our involvement within UofSC and the Columbia community and in turn, AKPsi encourages and equips its members for success!
What should I expect?
Non-Mandatory: Info Session
Thursday, August 29, Campus Room Capstone Building
This is the night to learn more about AKPsi. Our leadership team will present a little bit about AKPsi, how rush will look, and how to prepare for it. It will then transition into a mingling-type event, where you can ask brothers any questions you may have about the process. This is the night to start creating relationships with brothers and getting advice for how to be successful. That being said, the info session is not part of rush. Nothing you say will be used for/against you, we just want to start getting to know you and help answer questions you may have.
Night One: Speed Dating
Monday, September 2, Russell House Ballroom
This night begins with your opportunity to loosen up a bit and introduce yourself to our brothers, but it will conclude with what we like to call “Speed Dating.” Just like actual speed dating, each “date” can be overwhelming. But, you will quickly get used to the fast-paced dialogue of this night of rush and we encourage you to show your personality! Anticipate a lot of questions that you have never been asked before. You can also expect an amazing chance to really step out of your comfort zone and have some fun! We don’t require anyone to have all the answers, but we do want an honest response that lets us see your personality and creativity. We're looking for potential, not perfection. In the words of Babe Ruth, our biggest tip for night one is, “Do not let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”
Night Two: Mingling
Tuesday, September 3, Campus Room Capstone Building
This casual second night is a great chance to meet as many brothers as possible all within the span of a few hours. You can expect an explanation of what AKPsi is all about, but the rest of the night is up to you. Network at your own pace and tell us about yourself. We want to learn who you are and what makes you a great fit for AKPsi. This is an awesome time to ask any questions you might have about the organization or the rush process to a brother who has experienced it all before. We also encourage you to speak to any brother that you might not have met on Night One! Every single one of us was at one point in your shoes. Walk away from this night with new connections and friends on campus.
Night Three: Case Competition (Invitation Only)
Wednesday, September 4
Receiving an invitation to our third night of rush means that you will be partnered with a fantastic group of students whom you will work with on a team challenge. This activity is great for showcasing your creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving and public speaking skills. But remember, even if these things make you want to kick off your heels or loafers and run home, you’re all in this together! Teamwork is so important in the workplace and in life, so take this chance to collaborate with like-minded people and see what you can accomplish as a group.
Night Four: Passion Pitch (Invitation Only)
Thursday, September 5
Receiving an invitation to our fourth night of rush means that you will be given the opportunity to teach the brothers about something that excites you. This speech should be both informative and representative of who you are as an individual. This is great for showcasing your creativity, intellectual curiosity, and public speaking skills. One of our guiding principles is Lifelong Learning and the brothers are eager to learn from all that make it to this round!
Night Five: Final Interview (Invitation Only)
Friday, September 6
Congratulations! You’ve made it to our final round of rush. You can expect an appointment time and your snazziest business professional attire. We can’t let the cat out of the bag, but getting to this round means that we think you could be a great fit for AKPsi. Be confident and punctual. No need to stress out about the perfect suit – it’s you we want to learn about, not at what store you bought your blazer. If you want to be extra prepared, research the fraternity and practice your interview skills in advance with online resources or the career center.
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