I just got accepted ED into Barnard, and academically, its everything I want. I worked really hard in a college prep high school, too hard to go to a state school. However, I love the level of fun of a state school. Its something I’ve always looked forward to in college. I love Barnard but I’m scared that it won’t be fun, and that it will be too nerdy. I also heard that there were lots of lesbians, which I’m okay with, but…I like boys. Like… I REALLY like boys. Do you think I’ll meet people who will want that state school fun AS WELL as being driven? Like, wanting to go get trashed or hang out with guys or go clubbing or go and do Greek life stuff? This sounds stupid, and I know it’s shallow but at the same time I just want to have fun. And please no comments about going out to explore New York and its museums and stuff. I’ve been in the city plenty of times, I even used to live there. I’m talking about pure college fun, like either I’m Shmacked and Project X or clubbing and frat parties.
There are frat parties. My daughter was not into that scene so I only heard her complaining about the kids who were (that they would come back to the dorm around 3 am drunk and making too much noise) – so the answer is yes, you can find that experience if you are looking for it, but from my observation that is a minority of students overall. The overall culture of Barnard & Columbia is trends more serious; it’s simply not a party school overall.
I’m surprised that you applied ED without considering campus culture and environment first.
I’m a current Barnard student, who previously studied at a school that would definitely fall into your “level of fun of a state school” category.
As the above poster mentioned, there are frat parties, but even with loud music and all the alcohol money can buy the greek scene at Columbia just isn’t going to reach the “I’m Shmacked” level of college fun. There are also a couple of student bars around campus that people flock to, but again, no Project X or clubbing vibes will be found there. People have fun, drink, party, etc., it’s just not a priority, and it never really gets ‘wild’.
All that being said, joining a sorority will definitely help you find a group of friends who also want state school fun. You can get trashed, you can meet boys, and you can go clubbing - it’s just going to take more effort than it would on a less academics-driven campus.
@barnardgirl2018 There is definitely a social scene at Barnard and Columbia but from reading what you are seeking, I honestly do not think Barnard is the college for you. Barnard and CC students DO have fun but few get trashed.
As for liking boys, have you explored anything about Barnard? It is part of Columbia University. There are literally thousands of boys right across the street. You’ll also find boys in your classes, in the dining halls at Barnard, and using its facilities. indeed, I dare say you’ll find it hard not to run into many boys even on the Barnard campus.