So I’m starting W&L this coming fall as a freshman. I don’t really fit the typical stereotype of a W&L student. I don’t drink or party that much, and I’m a bit of a nerd. I don’t plan to join a sorority either. I guess I’m kinda nervous about this school cuz I’m afraid that I won’t find any students or friends like me and that I won’t fit in. So I’m wondering where are some cool places to hang or make friends at W&L if you’re a nerdy independent, cuz from what I’ve heard the only thing to do around campus is drink and party.
Hey, I feel pretty much the same!! I’m confident there are like-minded people at W&L like at any other school – so no worries, just planning on figuring it out when we get there 
Be sure and sign up for one of pre-o trips. Several are service oriented and a good way to get to know a small group of people. D met nice kids that way and was reassured that she wasn’t the only one who didn’t prioritize partying. She did join a sorority. I suggest the religious groups - RUF and General fellowship are pretty popular. There are also lots of community service options and outdoor clubs. D had several friends who did performance stuff - singing groups, plays. There is a student radio station. Lots of close friendships are made studying in the library.
Just keep open mind. The same students who party hard and join Greek life can also be ones who are history geeks or brilliant researchers. Just set parameters. As in say yes the study groups, hikes to house mountain and Pink Hut ice cream runs and no to large parities and rush. It’s doable
Definitely do the pre-o trip. My daughter did a service one and immediately had a group of like minded friends. It really helps ease the transition to college. As @scmom12 stated, there are service groups and religious groups. Join them!
Also, I suggest keeping an open mind about the sororities. Sororities at W&L are not the same as sororities at an SEC college. My niece joined one in the SEC and my daughter joined one at W&L. Vastly different. Much less serious at W&L. Or as my daughter said, you can make it as much or as little of your life as you want. So try to see what the sororities are like before dismissing joining one. They might not be what you expect.
One thing of note is that there are no parties at W&L sorority houses. The parties are at Fraternity houses. So, in theory, you could belong to a sorority and not go to parties. Also, my daughter knows multiple sorority members who got a 4.0 for the semester. I don’t know if they consider themselves nerds, but I’m not sure how much you can party yet get a 4.0.