<p>so what if i considered myself the kind of kid whos idea of fun does not automatically mean drinking or anything that fits the typical "greek" life?</p>
<p>would i be uncomfortable at trinity?</p>
<p>i dont consider myself at the opposite end of the spectrum either, at my high school im involved in a ton of things that keep me busy and social....only i dont really think the whole "walk of shame" or "drink till u drop" is for me.</p>
<p>what else is there to do at trinity?</p>
<p>i hope that this is nothing but an exaggeration of trinity's image, cause to be honest i really like the school's academic rep and campus.</p>
<p>There is an alternative social scene on campus called "The Fred," which hosts weekly events on Friday evenings. They do neat things like painting, or host improvisational comedy acts/a cappella groups. There is also a feminist reading group, board game nights and movie screenings. However, these events never go past midnight, so your night will be ending pretty early.</p>
<p>Sadly, aside from that, and the frats, you're pretty much on your own for weekend activities. Recently, proposals were accepted for cultural/special interests houses to be funded on Vernon Street, so the campus climate will be changing for the better sometime during your freshman year.</p>
<p>I don't think you'll feel uncomfortable, but you probably won't have many entertainment options.</p>
<p>This is one of the reasons I decided against applying to Trinity, even though it would have been nice to stay near home and in one of my favorite cities. That culture really does permeate the place according to my many friends who have gone or still go there, and that pretty much is its local rep. To those of us from the area, it's known as a preppy drinking school with a good economics program -- note that the academics come second. :/ I'm sure BantamBoy will disagree, which is a good thing -- you want perspectives of current students! -- but for an outsider perspective, that's what we know the place for.</p>
<p>I think Trinity's rep is outdated, but I understand that it is pervasive. My D almost didn't apply to Trinity because of it, but she loved the campus and her interview. When push came to shove though, she couldn't see herself actually attending, fearing it was still too preppy, too similar to the private HS she was leaving behind. She was accepted, but ultimately chose a school that is probbaly not very disimilar - but without the reputational baggage.</p>
<p>I did not mean to call into question Trinity's academic reputation-- as a matter of fact, I'm positive that I didn't. Yes, Trinity is a "drinking school," in that alcohol use is prevalent on the weekends, but do you know what Trinity is during the week? It's a top-tier Liberal Arts College, a title that stays with the institution and its students even throughout weekend debauchery. Students here have always put academics first, we just like to balance out work-related stress with hearty fun.</p>
<p>Drinking is going to be part of the undergraduate experience at almost any other college. It's foolish to pass judgment on a school like Trinity, simply because drinking isn't part of an underground, clandestine culture. However, if you prefer not to be aware of your children and their peers' toils with substance abuse, then I shan't try to change your mind about Trinity.</p>
<p>Furthermore, it irks me to know end to hear that being fashion conscious effects thoughts of ostentation or snobbery in prospective students. It's truly saddening to think that such ignorance is an unquestionably acceptable act, yet donning an J. Crew sweater isn't.</p>
<p>Since we're on the topic of preppiness, I should point out that I've noticed great variation in the public's definition of the word, "preppy." One definition suggests pretentiousness, while another suggests opulence, yet the word can refer to something as objective as a preparatory school graduate. In any case, the word has been redefined through colloquialism, and thereby misused due to illegitimate, connotative additions to its actual definition. I resent its usage, especially in reference to Trinity.</p>
<p>I wish you and yours luck at an institution of higher learning other than Trinity.</p>
<p>I really like BantamBoy's explanation there. Its true that "preppy" is used too commonly and many a times, it give s a wrond impression. To a prospective student, it can be really misleading at times.</p>
<p>I am an international student, and whenever I read the word "preppy" in a review it gives me a bad impression, an impression that I would stand out and it would be difficuklt from me to fit in that easily. I have to say, it even scres me here. Just reading that word... Well, I hope it works for me... and for everyone else too, of course!</p>
<p>i mean, trinity is preppy...most of the kids are from new england prep schools and are preppy in the true definition of the word. the social life does cater to the drinking, greek crowd and if you're not really in it, it can get old. but if it's not your style you will find people to hang out with and fun stuff to do and not really be hindered by this.</p>