By Megan Barnes
After over a year of life during the pandemic, one of Greek life’s prominent athletic traditions returned to the University of Maryland’s campus for students to enjoy.
Interfraternal Council “IFC” tailgates occur before each football game during the fall season. Each sorority and fraternity on campus gather on the university president’s lawn to socialize and share their Maryland pride.
“Not having [IFC tailgates during COVID] was very unfortunate, as I was not able to see my friends from other chapters as much,” said Quinn Johnson, a senior government and politics major and member of Alpha Delta Phi. “The tailgates are important because they get people excited for the game so that we can have an electric student section supporting the team.”
Some members of Greek life, such as junior Julia Bischoff, an environmental science and journalism double major, never experienced the tailgates. Bischoff pledged Alpha Chi Omega in Spring 2020, making most of her Greek life experience virtual.
“I’m just glad they’re back because I’ve heard so many good things from older girls in my sorority,” said Bischoff. “It’s really living up to the hype.”
Gianna Zappulla, a junior hearing and speech sciences major, had a similar experience when she pledged Sigma Kappa entirely online last spring.
“As a member who joined virtually, it’s cool to see the Greek community come together,” said Zappulla. “My favorite part would be getting to be with all of my sisters in one place, as well as seeing friends in other fraternity or sorority chapters.”
Sorority and fraternity members can also give guest wristbands for friends who are not in Greek life.
“I love that I am able to hang out with my friends and meet new people even though I am not a member of social greek life,” said Joey Lupo, a junior information systems major. “I appreciate the fact that IFC allows those from fraternities and sororities to give individuals who are not in Greek life the opportunity to participate.”
Much like many social events returning to the public, IFC tailgates are welcomed by the Greek communities who missed out on its social aspect.
“I think these tailgates are important because they really build a strong sense of community in Greek life,” said Bischoff.
