Pretty much what the title says. I love everything about Dartmouth except for these two things that i have heard frequently: Greek life is super prevalent, and it is paradise for someone who loves the outdoors. In your experience, is there a sizable number of people like me attending Dartmouth, and would I be able to find a like-minded group of friends?
Thanks,
RedditAddict
@RedditAddict It’s surprising that you didn’t post this on the Dartmouth subreddit. I can only speak to the non-partier aspect; I’m not a non-partier, but I’m not that interested in Greek life. When I asked my interviewer about that position they said that Greek life is a big part of the social scene because Hanover is pretty isolated, but that it didn’t feel like there were any divisions between the Greek life folks and the folks who didn’t participate.
I’m an '18 (junior at Dartmouth) who it sounds like was very much like you in high school. A couple of things:
A) Dartmouth has great access to the outdoors for those who want it, but only about half of the student population really loves doing things outdoors. Definitely no pressure to go outdoors or not to go outdoors.
B) Yes, Greek life is prevalent on campus. No, it is not like anything you would every expect out of Greek life. Dartmouth’s student body is the same as any other mid-ivy, but 75% of students are a part of Greek life. That means that there is a house for literally anyone (the 25% who don’t rush usually choose not to because they don’t want to be tied down to just one group; they’re still very active in the Greek scene). I came into Dartmouth wanting absolutely nothing to do with Greek life, but it’s turned out to be the be the best part of my experience here; it’s a support system first, party space a not-so-close second.
All of that being said, I do have friends who aren’t active in Greek life whatsoever but still find people to hang out with. It’s not the usual thing to do, but it is very possible.