Fraternity members say that their rush process, unlike the "punch" used by the final clubs, is open and that anyone is invited to try out. Even the Black frats, who refused to disclose details about their rush, say that they try to be inclusive.

But some are also quick to criticize the fraternities for the role they play in further widening the gap between resources for men and women on campus.

Since the national sorority organization won't approve campus chapters without Harvard's recognition, it is unlikely that female sororities will ever parallel the growth of fraternities.

Two Black sororities get around this rule by combining with students from other campuses, but Harvard's autonomy rule has made campus chapters impossible.

"Nothing can happen until the University policy is changed," says Amy H. Mezulis '94, who was involved in efforts to start a chapter of Pi Beta Phi on campus last year.

The inability of women to start sororities and the apparent success of fraternities at Harvard, some say, further tilts the balance of resources at Harvard towards men.

"There are not that many outlets for women to get together and meet people," says Jill M. Stocker '92, who also tried to establish a sorority. "I wish the University would recognize that there is this need for young women, and that the Lyman Common Room is not reaching out to them."

Though Harvard refuses to recognize the fraternities, College administrators are not blind to the message that students are sending them.

Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III admits that fraternities fill a need among students who are dissatisfied with House life.

And Jewett says fraternities are likely gaining popularity because Harvard's size can be intimidating.

"They give a sense of having a smaller community whom you can get close to," Jewett says.

Epps has long emphasized the need for a social center, to help compensate for inadequacies in the house system. Plans for a student center in Memorial Hall--unveiled with flourish two years ago--are on hold until new revenues are raised to fund it.

Although fraternities seem to be a reaction to poor social life in the houses, members say the house system is essential to their organizations.

"We enjoy house life," says Bencke. "There's something about Harvard that gives us an interest in something more."

Many fraternities are considering buying buildings that would serve as a meeting place, but most members admit that the house system provides a good incentive for people to live on campus.