<p>I think that the writings of F. Scott Fitzgerald, drinking traditions at many universities (such as UVA's 'drink a fifth in your fourth' during the Homecoming game), any number of amusing films from the 1920s and 30s, and the experiences most parents had during their own college years prove it: drinking has long been part of the college experience for many, probably most, kids, and it doesn't signify moral failure or impending doom.</p>
<p>But! This particular forum has been visited in the past few months by several negative posters, painting what we know to be a wonderful school in a very negative light because of the party scene. I initially read lyrisense's first post on this subject to mean that Vandy students read apps for the admissions department (disquieting enough) and that "Vanderbilt specifically DOES take into account each applicants personality traits and tends to accept those students who WOULD want to know about the alcohol and Greek policies." I don't know why I can't find that particular post in this thread now - maybe the mods were asked to delete it, by the poster or someone else? - but bandmom's post 26 above quotes part of it.</p>
<p>This notion can't help Vanderbilt present itself in the best possible light to the many prospective students and their parents who read this forum. Party on, but please - don't read personality traits into admissions policies.</p>