<p>Yes, this is the typical question of an 18 yr old. So, are new RPI freshman generally happy, or do many regret their decision? For example: The opinions on Penn State are generally all positive. You can easily party or study and it seems very open with options. On the other hand, I hear GREAT things about RPI academics but I also find some opinions on unhappiness. </p>
<p>I know this is a very general question. Will I be happy at RPI? What is the social scheme or trend like? I hear that colleges can have their own "atmosphere." What's RPI's atmosphere like?</p>
<p>sorry for all these bad, vague questions... =D
thanks</p>
<p>The atmosphere here is very academically oriented. People study here a lot and do so in study groups. It’s not unusual to study for the whole week with little room for fun. Fridays and Saturdays are the fun days when people go out and party, but Sunday through Thursday is the usual grind.</p>
<p>That isn’t to say that people don’t have fun; in fact, everyone seems to study hard and party hard. It’s a very good balance for non-party types as well since there are many things going on throughout campus on Fridays and Saturdays.</p>
<p>My opinion is generally positive, but it’s not uncommon for me to be negative through frustration due to homework, tests, and projects. I find that RPI is all about finding a good work-life balance that I’ll be committing to throughout life.</p>
<p>I have two kids at RPI and both love it. Both work hard but have time for fun. The thing about RPI is that their student union structure pretty much enables students to create any club/activity that truly interests them. So, I think any student who puts forth an effort to join activities that interests them can be happy. And, as a Mom, I’m happy they have to work hard. Too many kids coast through high school and are surprised to actually have to think and apply themselves. Working hard is a life long skill.</p>
<p>It’s what you make out of it. If you want to have fun and put the effort in to do so, you’ll have fun. If you are discouraged from the start, good luck with that.</p>
<p>Parties start Thursday night, come to crowbar</p>