The Orbis

    Like a good portion of cynical Vandy students, I am not too annoyed by rush. I think it's high quality entertainment. I will even forego watching Law and Order to sit in Branscomb to hear the high-pitched shrieks of girls chanting sorority rhymes. It's like Dr. Seuss on speed. What could be better? And who doesn't get a kick out of watching a herd of stampeding freshmen run up and down frat row? I even like the t-shirts that come in bright colors and sport catchy phrases like, "Be KD" and "First, Finest, Forever". Who doesn't love alliteration? Even greeks themselves must admit that the rush process is a bit ridiculous, but even so, I tolerated it. Until now. 

    In an effort to stick to my New Year's resolutions, I went to the rec center web page to check on times for yoga and aerobics class; however, my enthusiasm was short-lived. My eyes fell upon the following disclaimer: "Aerobics classes are canceled Sunday January 16th from 4-6pm — ONE DAY ONLY, due to Sorority Bid Day." I was horrified, scandalized! No Awesome Abs with Sabrina. No Step and Sculpt with Aru. The horror!

  You may be wondering, "What's the big deal? It's only two hours." Sure, it is only two hours and by the time you read this article rush will have ended. But the point is that Vanderbilt completely caters to greek life and does not extend the same generosity to other organizations or events on campus. It is true that 54% percent of the female population is in a sorority. But what about the 46% who aren't? We are a minority, but a very large one who should not be forced to break our New Year's resolutions because of rush. The fact is that the greek system has a stranglehold on student life.

  For instance, does the rec close on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day? How about Columbus Day, Labor Day, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day or Adult's Day (it's a Japanese thing)? The answer is no! And most of them are federally recognized holidays. I don't know about you but I have never come across Bid Day in my planner.

  So maybe you didn't miss your aerobics class. And maybe it's been so long since you've been to the rec, you forgot how to get there. That's your prerogative. But 100% of the student body pays a student recreation fee, not just the 27% who are in sororities, so why should they dictate my exercise regimen. I don't care if I am the only one who shows up for Yoga with Polly. She is being paid on my dime, and I demand my yoga! This time Greek Life has crossed the line!

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