What Does COB Mean in Sorority Life?

Understanding Continuous Open Bidding (COB) in Sorority Recruitment

If you've ever considered joining a sorority, you might have heard terms like "Primary Recruitment," "Formal Recruitment," or even "COB." While most are familiar with the traditional sorority recruitment process, Continuous Open Bidding—commonly called COB—is a unique opportunity many potential new members (PNMs) don't fully understand at first. Let’s break down what COB means in Greek life, how it works, and why it might be the perfect path for you to find your place in sorority life.

What Does COB Stand For? Sorority-Specific Definitions

COB stands for Continuous Open Bidding. In the context of sorority life, COB is an informal recruitment process that occurs after the formal or primary recruitment period. It is designed for sororities who still have spots available in their chapter after the main recruitment season ends.

• COB allows eligible sororities to invite potential members without the rigid structure of formal recruitment events.
• It offers new chances for PNMs who didn’t receive bids or couldn’t participate in formal recruitment.
• Sometimes called "open bidding" or "informal rush," COB is a flexible and often more relaxed way to join a sorority.

Why Do Sororities Offer Continuous Open Bidding?

Sororities have a set Total Membership Number determined by their campus or their national organization. If a chapter falls below this number—maybe due to graduation, transfers, or other reasons—they can engage in COB to reach their membership limit.

• Helps sororities maintain healthy chapter sizes.
• Ensures that the campus Greek community remains strong and inclusive.
• Allows sororities to meet new women who may not have been ready or able to go through the formal process.

How Does COB Differ from Formal Sorority Recruitment?

COB and formal recruitment are both pathways to sisterhood, but they look and feel very different. Understanding the distinction is essential as you decide which route suits you best.

• Structured vs. Informal: Formal recruitment follows a highly structured, multi-day schedule. COB is less formal, with events organized at the disrection of each chapter participating.
• Participation: Not all sororities offer COB. Only chapters under total membership or those eligible may participate, which can vary semester to semester.
• Events: COB events are usually more casual, like coffee dates, movie nights, or craft sessions with current sisters.
• Pacing: The pace is often slower, giving you a better chance to connect with members in a smaller, closer-knit setting.

Who Can Participate in COB? Eligibility and Timing

You may wonder if COB is right for you or if you even qualify. Here are some common eligibility criteria and what you should know about timing:

• Eligibility: COB is open to women who are not already members of a National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sorority on campus.
• You do not need to have participated in formal recruitment to join through COB.
• Students who were released from or withdrew from formal recruitment are also eligible.
• COB usually happens at the beginning of the spring semester but can occur any time after formal recruitment as needed.

How Does Continuous Open Bidding Work? Step-by-Step

If you’re considering joining a sorority via COB, here’s how the informal recruitment process typically unfolds:

1. Expression of Interest: You may reach out to the Panhellenic Council or individual chapters. Sometimes sororities will reach out to PNMs who expressed interest during formal recruitment.
2. Attend Events: You’ll get invitations to events—usually casual get-togethers or informational sessions. These events are designed for you to meet members and see if the sisterhood feels like a good fit.
3. Application & Interview: Some chapters require a short application or informal interview. Others simply rely on conversation and connection during events.
4. Receive a Bid: If the chapter feels you're a great match, they may offer you a bid (an invitation to join). You can then accept or decline the offer.
5. New Member Process: If you accept, you'll begin your journey as a new member, learning about chapter history, values, and sisterhood traditions.

Benefits of Joining a Sorority Through COB

Why choose COB over traditional recruitment? Many women find the informal process of COB surprisingly rewarding. Here’s why:

• Lower Pressure: COB events are smaller and less structured, making them ideal for students who prefer a laid-back environment.
• Building Real Connections: With fewer PNMs, you’ll have more meaningful interactions with current members.
• More Flexibility: COB can better accommodate your schedule and unique circumstances.
• Second Chances: COB offers another path if you didn’t get matched during formal recruitment or decided to join later in the year.
• Immediate Sisterhood: You’ll become part of a chapter eager to welcome and include new women.

Common Myths About Sorority COB

There’s plenty of confusion around COB. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:

• Myth: "It's not as prestigious as formal recruitment."
  Fact: All members share equal sisterhood and privileges, no matter how they joined.
• Myth: "Only unpopular chapters COB."
  Fact: Any chapter under campus total may offer COB, including well-established, highly sought-after chapters.
• Myth: "You miss out on big recruitment events."
  Fact: While COB lacks the elaborate events, members often say the genuine friendships make up for it.

Frequently Asked Questions About COB Sorority Recruitment

Can you join a sorority if you missed formal recruitment?

Yes, COB is specifically for women who did not participate in or complete formal recruitment. It provides another opportunity to join eligible sororities during the academic year.

Is COB as legitimate as the main recruitment?

Absolutely. Members who join through COB are full members of their chapters, with all the same rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.

How do I know which sororities are doing COB?

Most campuses post a list of sororities offering COB through the Panhellenic Council. You can also contact chapters directly or check their social media for announcements about COB events.

Does COB cost less than formal recruitment?

COB events may have little or no cost to attend, but the actual membership dues and fees are usually the same as for any new member joining via formal recruitment. Check with each chapter for specific information.

Can you COB more than once?

Yes, as long as you have not accepted a bid and joined an NPC sorority on your campus, you can participate in COB with different chapters in the future.

Key Takeaways on COB and Sorority Life Opportunities

COB in sorority life is a flexible, welcoming path that can help you find your best fit in campus Greek life. It offers unique advantages for those seeking connection, sisterhood, and personal growth outside of the formal recruitment process. Stay positive, keep an open mind, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your campus Panhellenic Council for more details on how you can get started with COB.