The first stage of sorority recruitment is to express your interest in joining. You normally do this at the start of the semester. You typically submit your application or request to the Greek life president or the student life office. You can also informally share your interests with leaders of various sororities that you meet in classes or on-campus. Some sororities set up booths and share information at opening week recruiting events.
The initial phase of rush week is like "speed dating," according to a July 2012 article in "The New York Times." The first event is typically a general social event, which all current sisters and new prospects attend. At this point, you get a chance to learn about the philosophies, goals and culture of each sorority. You also have a chance to have brief encounters with members to see whether you might fit in well with the current membership.
Following initial getting-to-know you socials, recruits normally have the chance to pare down their lists to preferred sororities. Using the speed dating analogy, this step is where you follow-up with interested parties to secure dates. You might select three sororities, for instance, and visit each house. During these more in-depth encounters, you get to learn about the sorority and the sisters get a better chance to see if you would fit in well.
In the end, the recruitment ball is in the hands of the sororities. After rush week meetings, activities and social engagements, each sorority issues formal bids to potential new sisters. You may get one bid, multiple bids or unfortunately, none. Accepting a sorority's bid culminates recruitment and rush week. The next step is typically a formal induction and welcoming ceremony. If you move into the sorority's house, this may even include help moving your bags into a room and getting settled.