fraternity/sorority life at dartmouth

Colleges and Universities A-Z Dartmouth College
1

<p>Hey everybody,</p>

<p>I'm a high school junior (white male) from NY and I just got back from visiting schools as a part of my New England college search, and I really fell for Dartmouth. I thought that it was by far the best fit for me in terms of its scenic location and undergrad focus compared to all the ivies and similar level schools I've seen. Also, all the students I met were really friendly (way different than Harvard!) and even a professor started up a conversation with me in a restaurant in Hanover. I stayed for an info session and went on a tour (my guide was great) and I am really impressed with all aspects of the school.</p>

<p>I know of course that Hanover is a small town, and that the weather is very cold for a large part of the fall, winter, spring, and I was told about how the fraternities/sororities play such a major role in the social scene. What I am wondering is how members of the fraternities fit into the student body as a whole (are they stuck-up, elitist, normal nice guy?), and what types of students (only varsity athletes?) are welcomed to join.</p>

<p>I'm not being recruited but I play sports and exercise regularly (I believe in the healthy body, healthy mind motto) and had such a great vibe when visiting. I want to gain whatever information I can to try to figure out whether I would be a good fit to join some sort of fraternity at Dartmouth because that would play a big role in my decision to apply early, matriculate if accepted regular etc.
If anyone could share info just about what life is like in the greek system at Dartmouth and what normal activities greek students participate in, that would be great.
Thank you!</p>

2

<p>Keep in mind that there is no pledging freshman year so you will have time to see the greek system for your self and make a decision as to whether or not it is right for you.</p>

3

<p>The Greek system at Dartmouth is less exclusive and much less snobbish than at other schools. As long as you enjoy partying and/or the idea of hanging out in a basement playing pong a couple nights a week, the Greek system is a very good fit for you.</p>

4

<p>IMHO, they are normal nice guys.</p>

5

<p>The greek system is number one concern of incoming students are reported to admissions, and yet almost 70% of students end up affiliated. A lot of people come in with your concerns, and then over the course of freshman year realize that hearsay and stereotypes don’t exactly paint the full picture. With 67ish% of eligible students being affiliated, Greek students are the student body: a capella singers, athletes, student government leaders, tour guides, dining services workers, library employees, tutors, political group leaders, activists, artists you name it, affiliated students do it. Because rush isn’t until sophomore year, people have a year to find their niche, and their greek houses become another network of people, but not their only network of people.</p>