The freshman, who has recently pledged a fraternity, stands with heavy feet and foggy mind, holding a single flower. He stumbles forward, awkwardly drops to his knees and shoves out his hand. The girl takes the flower, then realizes there is chanting in the background.
"Make out...make out...make out..."
So he goes for it, and the sorority girl hurries away red faced.
Welcome to the ghost of Flower-Ins past.
Mixed emotions of excitement and social pressure have always plagued this long-time tradition at DePauw. But in the past an excessive consumption of alcohol and harassment of men and women alike have caused some tension and taken away from the real goal of a Flower-In: presenting pledge classes and getting to know the greek community.
But these new changes to the Flower-In's are to be commended. Despite some student grumblings, the changes are slight and affect the actual event very little. The serenades, the presentation and the occasional kiss are still there.
Girlfriends still receive bouquets from their respective boyfriends and the after-party will most likely occur for those who wish to partake.
So what exactly is the problem with these new rules? Greek women should be pleased they no longer have to witness fraternity men being beaten with paddles. Or be dropped while being dipped. Or be embarrassed when they can't complete a potentially harmful tackle.
But the worst outcomes are born from hazing. Fraternity pledges have arrived dangerously drunk because they feel they have to be. Boyfriends are unable to stand from alcohol overconsumption anticipating harsh paddling. Girls pre-game the event because they are nervous for the derogatory chanting and sexual pressure.
As they were in the past, Flower-Ins should be focused on getting to know new members of the greek community without negative pressures but most importantly without negative repercussions.
It is heartening to see the Panhellenic and Interfraternity councils take it upon themselves to recognize a problem and create a solution before the university takes away the privilege of holding these events.
In the end, the key word is ‘consequences.' Bad behavior can lead to property damage, personal harm or negative perceptions.
It is our responsibility as members of the student body (and the greek community) to uphold standards we want to represent.
And for those who want to drink — you only have to wait until 9:30 p.m.