It starts with changing what “tough” actually means. A lot of guys are taught that toughness is about taking pain or proving yourself — but real strength is about how you treat people. Being dependable, respectful, and willing to speak up for others takes more courage than just “powering through.” 

When we redefine toughness to mean showing up with integrity and respect, the need to “test” people through hazing starts to disappear. Brotherhood should be about lifting each other up, not tearing each other down. 

Usually, yes — but both can be harmful. Fraternity hazing tends to get physical or involve risky stuff like forced workouts or drinking. Sorority hazing, on the other hand, can be more emotional — things like exclusion, body shaming, or making people feel “less than” to prove their loyalty. 

At the end of the day, hazing is hazing. Whether it’s physical or emotional, it breaks trust, damages confidence, and goes against what sisterhood and brotherhood are supposed to be. 

Recruitment is meant to be a time to meet people, learn about their values, and see if you click. You’ll go to events, chat with members, and get a sense of the chapter’s vibe. 

What you shouldn’t expect is anything that feels uncomfortable, disrespectful, or forced. If someone makes you do something that doesn’t sit right — even if they call it “tradition” or “bonding” — it’s okay to walk away. A healthy organization will never ask you to compromise your safety or your values. 

Unfortunately, yes — it can still happen after you’ve joined. Sometimes people try to pass it off as “just tradition” or “how we’ve always done things.” 

But according to Georgia Tech’s Hazing Policy, hazing is any act that causes or risks physical or emotional harm, no matter when it happens or who it’s directed at — even if someone “volunteers.” That means alumni events, secret challenges, or “loyalty tests” can all be counted as hazing. 

At Tech, if it risks your well-being, it’s not bonding — it’s a violation. 

Yes. Under the Max Gruver Anti-Hazing Act, hazing is a crime in Georgia. Most cases are misdemeanors, but if someone gets seriously hurt or dies, it can become a felony. 

That’s not just a campus issue — that’s a legal one that can affect your future. It’s a serious reminder that “tradition” is never worth someone’s safety or your freedom. 

If you speak up about hazing, Georgia Tech’s Office of Student Integrity (OSI) has your back. Here’s how it works: 

• You can report hazing online at osi.gatech.edu/hazing-conduct-history. You can even choose to stay anonymous. 
• OSI will review what happened, open an investigation if needed, and ensure you’re safe. 
• You’re protected from retaliation — meaning nobody is allowed to come after you for reporting. 
• You’ll also have access to campus support, such as counseling and student advocacy services. 

Reporting isn’t about getting someone in trouble — it’s about protecting your community and making sure every student can belong without fear or harm. 

Not at all. Hazing can show up anywhere — not just in fraternities and sororities. You might see it in sports teams, ROTC, marching band, performance groups, cultural orgs, or even academic clubs.  

Anytime there’s a group where people want to belong and others hold the “power,” there’s a risk of hazing. It might be framed as a “bonding experience” or “paying your dues,” but if someone’s being embarrassed, pressured, or hurt to earn their spot — that’s hazing.  

Real belonging doesn’t come from being tested; it comes from being welcomed.  

If it’s truly harmless and everyone involved genuinely feels safe and respected, that’s one thing. But a lot of hazing starts small and builds up — and what feels “lighthearted” to one person might feel humiliating to another.  

Ask yourself: Would this still feel okay if everyone on the team, including coaches or faculty, saw it? If the answer is no, it’s probably crossing a line.  

You can make a huge difference by speaking up. You don’t have to confront people directly if that feels unsafe — you can report anonymously to OSI or talk to a trusted advisor, coach, or faculty member.  

Even small actions — checking in on the person being targeted, refusing to participate, or sharing your concerns — help shift the culture. Silence protects hazing, not people.  

Easy — focus on positive traditions that build connection instead of fear. Things like service projects, retreats, mentorship programs, and team-building challenges that emphasize respect and trust actually strengthen the group.  

When people feel safe and valued, they perform better, lead better, and stay committed longer. That’s real pride.