<p>I applied to both Wesleyan and Rice. I didn’t receive a good aid package from Wesleyan and thus couldn’t seriously consider the school, but from what I remember from my research the drinking scene at the two schools is very similar, but the drug scene at Wesleyan is a good bit more prevalent.</p>
<p>I’m not saying that’s bad or anything, but if you don’t do drugs or drink that might be a factor. And I can’t say any more than those generalizations–Wesleyan students might be some of the friendliest, least pressuring students around so you could go there and never be pressured to do drugs, for all I know. That’s the thing, I simply don’t know.</p>
<p>What I can speak to, though, is that alcohol is a large part of campus life at Rice, but it is most certainly not the only part. I know a ton of people who don’t drink at all yet still go to parties, etc. and it’s completely fine. No pressure from anyone to do something you’re not comfortable with. I also know people who don’t go to parties and still have a great social life.</p>
<p>In fact, just last night two of the colleges on campus hosted a bonding event which had milk and cookies, a root beer keg, etc. All non-alcoholic drinks and a ton of food. I couldn’t make it, but a ton of people went and had a good time.</p>
<p>As far as the social scene in general goes, if you are a creative, artsy person that’s completely fine and completely acceptable here. The thing about Rice and the residential college system is that it is set up specifically so that everyone is accepted and welcomed. You can be yourself, no matter how quirky, nerdy, artsy, etc. and it’s completely fine. Out of my core friend group, I would say about half are in science/engineering, and half are in social sciences/humanities. I’m in the social sciences myself.</p>
<p>And about dating in college, not sure why you think that doesn’t happen at Rice. Although it’s a bit more common to see people in relationships or simply hooking up, casual dating definitely happens and is definitely feasible. One of my best friends takes girls on dates–well, he did until he decided to get into a relationship with one. Another of my friends takes girls on dates all the time. In fact, I would say that although casual dating is not as common at Rice (though it definitely happens!), people at Rice are just as preoccupied with relations with members of the preferred sex as people at any other school.</p>
<p>In sum: you can be perfectly artsy, want to date, and not be overwhelmed by drugs/alcohol or science/engineering majors at Rice. Although alcohol is a part of campus life and there are a lot of S/E majors, that isn’t all there is. Take it as you will. I can’t speak for Wesleyan though, unfortunately. It’s a great school in and of itself so whenever you make a choice, just don’t look back. Hope this helps!</p>