<p>I’m deciding if I should leave it on my list and I’m wondering if anyone could describe how isolated the campus is and how much the social life centers around drinking. Thanks!</p>
<p>well, i don't go there but it is currently amongst my top choices. I have visited and I'm going back in a month for IDP. sooo i will try to describe it based on my experiences/ what I've read.</p>
<p>basically, it is located in a rural, forested area amongst a few small towns (Red Hook, Rhineback, and Tivoli). There is apparently plenty of good eating and antique shopping there, but little else. However there is an Amtrak station in Rhineback which will get you to NYC, so that's definitely a weekend option. As far as social life centering on drinking, I think only as much as the next LAC, if not less. there is no greek life, no raging fraternity parties and the like. The typical "bardian" is a creative or artsy type who has actual interests and passions beyond just getting wasted, so intellectual conversations and theme parties for fun are certainly not outside the norm. if anything the culture might tend more toward other illicit substances than alcohol - but I have 2 friends who go there and don't drink or smoke, and both are enjoying their time immensely!! so no worries. GO BARD!</p>
<p>Is there pressure to take drugs and alcohol? Is it a central part of the social life?</p>
<p>There's lots of drinking and pot(pills too) from what i see but that's going to be prevalent at most secluded and vigorous LAC's. Just visit first maybe overnight if possible, wish i had (though that's a given) because this type of seclusion isn't for everyone.(i'm transferring and i did visit, only briefly,who knows) If you go here you go because you're ok with your life revolving around the campus(it's beautiful but you're are out in the woods and in no way close to city life)</p>
<p>Well, I know many people who drink (and many who don't), and I haven't encountered any pressure, so don't worry about it.</p>