superficial recruitment

It's because boys pretty much determine these made up "rankings". If the only thing someone can say about a sorority is "they're hot", do you really want to be a part of that group?
I can only speak for my chapter, but I can assure you that we definitely look at girls personalities, achievements, and goals when voting on members. I mean, if a girl comes in looking a hot mess sure that might affect how we perceive her (brush your hair, put some chapstick on...) but in no way do we say "well, she was like, really pretty so we should invite her back." We have no use for a pretty girl with nothing else to offer. Again, I'm speaking for 1 out of 11 chapters. I dont know what the other chapters do, but I choose to believe they are similarly inclined to take more genuine and authentic qualities into consideration when selecting their members.
HOWEVER, keep in mind, you go into a room of 100 girls and talk to 3 girls for like 20 minutes total. There's going to be a little superficialness no matter what sometimes (on BOTH sides! First round of my rush I ranked a few sororities I didn't remember anything about based on their colors.). Just try to shine as much as you can with what you have to offer as a potential member of a chapter!

if you're a below average looking girl with average credentials you won't get a bid from one of the top 4, if you're an above average looking girl with average credentials you have a much better chance. Just being honest

in regards to "yea" comment... youre whats wrong with greek life.

"well"'s comment is most accurate. Joining an organization is suppose to empower you so if you are going through rush wanting "top" because youre too afraid of being less than your true potential, thats on you. Every chapter has a group of wonderful women, but the chapter who is meant for you -- you need to realize that its not their "rank" -- its what in 3/4 years it will offer to you. For me -- i have amazing connections and a couch to always sleep on. No matter what. Cant say that for everyone. I know a girl who rushed every year until she was a junior just to get a single chapter to want her back.. which is so silly. You can spend that time in a group who saw your potential from early on because ladies - i love mixers and themes and airband, but when you graduate NONE of that will guarantee your success. Just think that over. You may be 18 and like "omg i just want to have fun and party" realize youll get that in every chapter (EVEN theta, DG, and adpi), but not every chapter will make you feel successful.