No matter how attentive students are in the classroom, additional study time is a requirement for most. Typically, that time is spent alone, but the brothers of SigEp’s Missouri Alpha chapter at the University of Missouri have found a unique way to inject a social aspect into their study time.

Similar to fantasy sports leagues, the chapter’s fantasy academics program takes a team approach to helping brothers stay on track with their studies. Brothers are drafted onto teams of 10, with each team member earning points for high test scores, studying or receiving a complimentary note from a professor. The program was started during the pandemic to help brothers connect and encourage them academically. Accomplishments are shouted out throughout the semester at chapter meetings, and the team that finishes the term with the most points is treated to dinner.

The program’s coordinators said in addition to boosting the chapter’s grades, the league has also created new opportunities for brothers to spend time together.

“Our GPA has been 3.49 or above every semester since we started the program. I’ve heard brothers say, ‘I see this or that brother is studying, and I need to step up my game,’” said Zach Lovelace, Missouri ’24, the chapter’s former vice president of learning community.

Grant Himmelmann ’23, who served as fantasy academics draft commissioner, added, “It’s a good, competitive vibe. Brothers are really engaged with the program. I try to give updates, like who’s leading, to keep everyone interested.”

While the program isn’t mandatory, Himmelmann and Lovelace said the majority of the 70-man chapter has participated regularly. The chapter has even promoted the program to potential new members and fielded questions from other campus organizations that are interested in starting their own fantasy academics program.