FAQs

Q: Why join TKE?

A: Through our membership development and education programs, each member of TKE is provided with the resources and tools that will help you achieve your personal best in all areas of college life and prepares you for success after graduation. Our men embody the principles promoted by the Fraternity and are poised for success. They belong to TKE..."The Fraternity for Life."

Q: Aren't fraternities just like the one shown in the movie "Animal House?"

A: Nobody likes stereotypes. Unfortunately, after the showing of that movie, fraternity members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible, and abusive. In reality, fraternities are value-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendship.

Q: Don’t fraternities promote excessive drinking?

A: Absolutely not. Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with the ideals of Tau Kappa Epsilon. Every individual member and chapter is expected to uphold federal, provincial, regional and city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.

Q: I'm concerned about my grades--what impact will fraternity membership have?

A: Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Tau Kappa Epsilon will assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs which might include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. Moreover, you will be able to access the network of brothers who already know how to use campus resources like the library, study skills centers, computer labs, and academic advisors. While Tau Kappa Epsilon is concerned about the academic achievement of its members, you are still ultimately responsible for utilizing the resources made available.

Q: What about pledging or hazing?

A: Tau Kappa Epsilon does not condone or tolerate any form of hazing and is committed to a membership education period which instills a sense of responsibility and commitment in the new members. This period will assist you in overcoming some of your concerns about success in college.

Q: Who is actually in charge of the fraternity?

A: Members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the local chapter. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors.

Q: Doesn't it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity?

A: Each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. If housing is offered, fraternity lodging and meals are competitive with other housing options. It is also important to note that a variety of payment plans are usually offered by the individual chapter. For more information regarding the fees charged by the International Fraternity, please visit http://www.tke.org/member_resources/finance/fee_structure.html. You should ask the local chapter about the fees they charge, which may (or may not) include his Candidate Fee and Initiation Fee.

Q: Being in a fraternity sounds like it takes a lot of time.

A: Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Through your involvement with Tau Kappa Epsilon, you will learn how to balance your academic, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Q: What am I going to get out of my membership in Tau Kappa Epsilon?

A: You'll be amazed at what you will get from your experience in Tau Kappa Epsilon. Joining TKE will round out your collegiate experience. In fact, most alumni say that TKE completed their educational experience by teaching them valuable skills that are not taught in the classroom. Here's what TKE offers: lifelong friends, leadership opportunities, social and athletic activities, academic support and excellence, and networking opportunities.
For additional questions or concerns, please feel free to

The Upsilon-Theta Chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon at University of Maryland, Baltimore County was installed as a chapter on May 21, 2005.

Since 1899, Tau Kappa Epsilon has never had an exclusionary clause for membership. TKE does not judge men on their wealth, rank or honor, but instead on their personal worth and character.

Our mission is to "to aid men in their mental, moral, and social development for life." In essence, we build Better Men for a Better World.