I've been reading a lot about secret societies in colleges like Skull and Bones, and it's super intriguing. Could you guys tell me about some of the most famous college secret societies and what they're known for?
Absolutely! There are many intriguing secret societies that have formed at universities across the United States, often dating back centuries. Here are a few of the most well-known ones:
1. Skull and Bones: Located at Yale University, Skull and Bones is probably one of the most famous secret societies. Known for its influential alumni, including several U.S presidents like William H. Taft and George W. Bush, the society is known for its crypt-like clubhouse, known as “The Tomb.” While much is speculated, not much is known about the society’s activities, reinforcing its mysterious reputation.
2. Scroll and Key: Also at Yale, Scroll and Key was founded as a rival to Skull and Bones. Like its counterparts, it's known for a list of high-profile members, often from illustrious families, including several influential figures in various fields.
3. The Seven Society: At the University of Virginia, The Seven Society is known for its strikingly anonymous membership—even in death, members are only revealed by a banner of the number seven draped over the location associated with the member. The society is known for its focus on philanthropy.
4. The Wolf’s Head Society: Once again at Yale, this society was formed in response to the exclusivity of the earlier societies. While still selective and secretive, it's known for being slightly more open to the influence of student opinion.
5. The Sphinx Senior Society: This is the oldest honor society at the University of Pennsylvania and is known for its members' recognizable Sphinx hats. Their secrecy is maintained through a blindfolded initiation process and a private clubhouse.
6. The Porcellian Club: At Harvard University, the Porcellian Club is one of the oldest collegiate societies in the United States. It’s famous members include the likes of Theodore Roosevelt. The motto of the Porcellian club is "dum vivimus vivamus," Latin for "while we live, let's live."
Remember that while these societies have a certain glamour and mystique, they form a small part of the larger college experience, which is rich with many opportunities for leadership, connections, and growth. College offers a multitude of ways for students to form deep and lasting relationships, and secret societies are just one part of that broader picture.
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