Can someone familiar with Bates describe what life is like for a student who is more artsy than athletic, and not naturally a big outdoorsy person? Is there still a community of kindred souls to be found? Is there a big social divide between the athletes and the rest? Separately, does the school have a way of promoting connections among the freshman, such as through social houses, mentoring or the like? Thanks for your input!
My D and her friends are not athletes. I know art classes and the like are popular. D wasn’t able to get on the one she wanted in freshman year. She enjoyed the art class she ended up taking. There isn’t any one type of Bates kid. D is very not-outdoorsy. Honestly, I am suspicious that you are my D and you’re just messing with me because you know I’m always on CC, lol!
I doubt there is a social divide. My kid and her friends hang out with athletes too, even though none of them participate in sports. As far as connecting freshmen, that’s what orientation and AESOP are all about. In her freshman year, my D and her first group of sort-of friends joined the sailing club, volunteered, did excursions to Freeport and Portland, went to the dances, ice skated, did the ski day, etc… It’s pretty much geared towards helping freshmen find their place on campus.
There are themed houses. I’m not exactly sure what they are. You can contact Res Life at Bates and ask.
I don’t think you have to worry about finding friends at Bates. It’s regularly described as having a friendly and relaxed student body. It’s academically demanding, but students are not competitive, for sure.