<p>...about the student life at Washington? I haven't had the chance yet to visit, but I know people who have -- they've had mixed reactions. I'm definitely interested in a career in medicine, and I know that WashU is one of the best in the midwest (if not the country) for this study. However, I've heard that students are extremely dedicated to their studies... to a point where their social lives tend to vanish. I'm really torn because I understand how necessary it is for me to have a solid education if I want to become a doctor, yet I want to have "the college experience." Don't get me wrong... I know I will be studying a heck of a lot, but I just don't want to be drowned in books every single night. </p>
<p>I'm sure you can look at other posts in this forum about student life at WUSTL, but it is very high. A primary reason why many people choose Wash U is the balance between academics and student life. It's a very laidback, supportive atmosphere. The Princeton Review has rated Wash U #1 in the country for quality of life this year -- and these rankings are based off student surveys from colleges around the country, so I think it's pretty reliable. The dorms are extraordinarily nice, the food is great, and there are always activities on campus and in the immediate St Louis area near campus. This is not the kind of place where it's cutthroat or competitive -- collaboration and group work is much more prevalent. </p>
<p>For most top-tier Univerisities, you will find challenging academics, but I think Wash U is known for balancing that with helpful teachers and advisers, and the fact that the typical Wash U student is just a nice person who values the work/life balance. You're not going to find big keggers going on , but instead you'll find things like a cappella concerts, IM sports, general hanging out with your dorm, a big carnival in the spring, a huge concert every semester called WILD, and some comparatively low-key fraternity parties.</p>
<p>Good to know... Thanks! I think it's the balance that I'm most looking for. I'm very involved in athletics and extracurriculars right now in high school, and I just can't imagine giving them up. It's one of those things where I have to be busy all the time, or I don't know what to do with myself -- I'd probably go crazy if things were to get too monotonous. Can you give any estimation as to how much of the student population is involved in activities? If you're a student right now, I'd love to hear what you are all involved in...</p>
<p>Yeah, I wouldn't be worried about a lack of balance. My schedule is definitely challenging, but it doesn't mean that I don't do other things. In college, since you spend a lot less time in class, you have much more flexibility. A ton of people do sports, and pretty much everyone is involved with other groups. Good luck!</p>