<p>I was reading a Princeton thread and it seemed that alcohol was intertwined with social life. It bothers me as I do not drink and do not see the need to. Is drinking, binge drinking, and drinking games a big factor at Caltech too? Does it happen often? Can you have a good social life without it? I am very social, but like to have fun in different ways. If some current students could answer me, I would appreciate it. Thanks.</p>
<p>You can definitely have fun here without drinking. There are lots of other things to do. Drinking does happen, as some people seem to think it's fun, but I don't drink and I've never felt that it kept me from having a good social life.</p>
<p>I second JNT. People definitely do drink, but if you don't want to, it's not going to hold you back. I don't drink and it has never hurt my social life.</p>
<p>Thanks for the feedback! It is nice to know that I can have a fun social life without it at Caltech.</p>
<p>You'll always find people who drink. Best to get used to it, but I can only assume that people here will not try to pressure you in way to drink</p>
<p>I've met many people here who don't drink and are not afraid to say it publicly (as opposed to not bringing up the topic unless someone asks, for the fear that they'll be looked down upon for their decision).</p>