Our chapter has been ambushed over the last year. First, hazing allegations were brought upon us first semester, putting us on probation for the semester. Our current president has begun to implement a nationals ass-kissing agenda, including following all rules they set up for us, word for word.
While I agree that there are some times that rules need to be followed, if we simply allow all these rules to be placed upon us, we become merely a clone of every other one of our chapters in the country. What should I do?
Answer:
I think you should stop for a second and really analyze the situation you are in. You got busted for hazing. That is a big deal. You are on probation, another big deal.
Chances are, if something were to happen while you are on probation, then your chapter could face more severe sanctions which could include losing your charter.
Look, I am the last person in the world who believes others should tell you what to do. That is not what I’m all about. I also hate conformists – they make the world boring. However, in your case, following national’s lead is probably in your best interest.
You must realize that you are a part of a national organization. There are great benefits to being part of a national organization. One of them is getting counsel on how to run your chapter. If you have found yourself on probation, chances are they know how to run your chapter better than you and your brothers.
Don’t be so arrogant that you think you have all the answers.
The best advice I can give your president in this situation is to be part of the solution. He needs to reach out to nationals and let them know that the chapter wants get better. He needs to do the same with the university. The more engaged you are in the process of righting your chapter, the more input you will have in shaping what will happen.
As for you, as a brother you need to support him and the rest of the exec board. If you question what is happening, have candid conversations in private. It does no one any good if you question his actions in front of the chapter or other brothers. Be respectful and eager to be part of the solution.
About becoming a clone of every other chapter in the country – that is a poor saying even though I know what you mean. If you want to have your own identity, create it. Have events and do things that make you different. Do something that makes you guys special. You can complain about being the same, or you can actually put your thoughts into action and make your chapter better.
I know how frustrating it is to be on probation and have the feeling that the weight of the world is on your shoulders. I’ve been there and I know it is miserable. Like everything in life, it won’t last forever.
From my perspective – it looks like you have only two real options. One, you can complain about it. Or two, you can do whatever you can to improve your situation. Choose option 2. It will make you a better man and better leader.