To the Editor:
In the Monday, Jan. 22 issue of The Dartmouth, John Strayer makes a comment that I would like to address. He writes, "Students who had a coed circle of friends in high school find themselves in single-sex social organizations, compromising their identity because they (incorrectly) feel they have no choice." I assume he is refering to the greek system, of which I am a member.
I take offence to John's portrayal of the decision to join a single sex greek house, for he makes it sound as if the members have no control over the process.
My decision to join a fraternity was one of my toughest decisions at Dartmouth, and it came after much careful consideration. It was the very fact that I had choices -- fraternity, coed, or independent -- that made the decision so difficult. I researched my options from a variety of angles, and made the choice that was best for me.
I also disagree with his idea that single-sex organizations compromise one's identity. My membership has, at the very least, expanded my identity by giving me a great group of people to develop friendships with. Nor do I feel that I have shut out my female friends, and I find the idea that a mixed group of friends and membership in a greek house are mutually exclusive to be unsubstantiated. I do think that coed organizations facilitate gender interaction but are certianly not a pre-requisite. I think a healthy balance between mixed and single-sex groups is an important part of a college experience and is possible through a variety of avenues. We all need to find our own best route.
