Is HPU really that stereotypical??

<p>From the many reviews I read from different websites, I gather that HPU is mostly: white, wealthy, republican, christian, straight, stuck up kids who LOVE to party and have sex and enjoy the campus but don't care about academics. Is this true?</p>

<p>My grades are good enough to get in, yes, but I feel as if HPU will be like high school again. Note that I'm also black. Is there a good amount of blacks and other minorites there? </p>

<p>Sent from my LG-P509 using CC</p>

<p>HPU is getting better and better each year with diversity. In my three years here so far, I have seen amazing improvement. I wouldn’t lie to you and say white students aren’t the majority, because they are. However, IMO it is not overwhelming. Our student body is very close and no matter what your race, you will be accepted. </p>

<p>As far as wealth goes, we are just like any private school, so we do have our fair share of wealthy kids. But more often than not, you’ll find most students are here on scholarship and financial aid. Politics leans right, but since we are so diverse when it comes to northeastern students, you get a pretty fair mix of healthy debate around campus. IMO its important to have a mixed campus politically because that’s how good debate and discussion starts. </p>

<p>Religion is certainly prevalent on campus… keep in mind HPU was founded by the Methodist church so we do have Christian values on campus. It’s NEVER in your face though and you are not required to attend church services on campus. The chapel on campus is nondenominational so you don’t have to be Methodist to attend! </p>

<p>As far as HPU feeling like High school and all about “partying and sex”… this simply comes down to who your surround yourself with and how you act as a person. If you (or anyone for that matter) are not mature enough to leave high school drama in high school, college will also feel like high school no matter where you go! HPU is a small school so you will see a lot of familiar faces, but in my three years here it has never felt like high school. </p>

<p>There is a party scene, but there is TONS to do apart from that so I wouldnt be too worried if that’s not your thing. The whole sex thing is a joke, that comes down to the people you hang around as well. Most of our student body has enough class to refrain from that kind of lifestyle, but like any college, there are a few bad cookies. </p>

<p>College is what you make it, don’t let some bitter reviews make your decision! Just about every college has negative reviews because the people who feel guided to write reviews are usually angry. Generally people don’t take time to review if they are content. Come talk to real students on campus and get a feel for campus life if you want good, unbias input. </p>

<p>I know that was long, but I hope that helps!! Let me know if I missed anything or if I need to expand.</p>

<p>That really helped! Thanks! </p>

<p>Sent from my LG-P509 using CC</p>

<p>Hi - My son is in his sophomore year. He has a number of friends that are both white and black; race has never been an issue. There are many people from wealthy families or I’d say successful families. Parties at the school are no different than any other school, however security is strict. My son complained security breaking up parties. For me that is a good thing.</p>

<p>When my son was struggling in his first year, especially the first semester, the professors reached out to him to help. He isn’t very religious (the school is Methodist). They do require one religious class (your choice of what you want to take) but do not push religion on you. My son has changed his major to something that was never a thought while in HS. The professor really saw a talent in him and helped him discover it. The staff really does care and provides support.</p>

<p>As in any school, it is what make of it and also who you choose to be friends with. I love the school, and Dr. Qubien the President is a wonderful human being. He pushes the mantra of Love of God and Country, but it is about being patriotic. </p>

<p>I love the fact that my son is being exposed to many ideas and people who are successful. It is something to aspire to.</p>

<p>If you haven’t been to the campus yet, be sure to get there. I think once you meet the staff and students in your visit (walk around on your own too), you will get an idea of what it is like. </p>

<p>Good luck on your choice.</p>

<p>A happy HPU parent (Go Panthers)</p>

<p>superspy,</p>

<p>Your post was helpful. My D will be a freshman next fall at HPU. She is a high achiever in HS and had many choices to consider for college, but chose HPU because it felt like the right fit for her. I am proud of her that she is able to deflect and deal with the comments from insensitive classmates (and some adults too) about her choice. Example, when she announced she was going to HPU, a friend said, “Oh, I’m sorry.”</p>

<p>Hamma59, so sorry about the rude comments from others. My D is a freshman at HPU and is also a high achiever and she has found many of her classes challenging, difficult and engaging, contrary to some reports that classes are all easy. I am sure your daughter will have a great experience.</p>

<p>luckydog,</p>

<p>Thanks for the note. I appreciate it. How has your daughter found the social life? Has she been able to meet friends easy? Any pressure to go Greek?</p>

<p>She got involved right away with Honors Club, Bio Club and kids on her floor. She is a member of Alpha Phi Omega ( a co-ed service fraternity), that’s not as Greek as the sororities. She has friends in sororities and a lot not in Greek life, so she didn’t feel pressure to join a sorority. Many of her close friends are not in APO, so she has many different groups to do things with.</p>

<p>The great thing about HPU’s greek system is they dont allow you to rush until second semester so you can’t just pay for your friends and only interact with your brothers/sisters. You have an entire semester to socialize and join other things to get involved. I’m not in greek like, and never felt pressured to join. There are so many other way to get involved on campus if its not your scene.</p>