<p>What is the work level like in Brandeis? Do you have free time to go out on weekends or do most people study. I have heard many different things and this is one of the schools I am considering if I do not get into my first choice. Also what is the social scene like? I always hear “it’s what you make of it” but that doesn’t tell me much. Do many people go out, party, have fun? If someone could give me the overall vibe of Brandeis, including the work load and social scene, that would be great.</p>
<p>I have 5 classes, so I don’t go out as much as most people, although I usually have a an hour or so free every day to just do whatever. On weekends, I try to go out to either Waltham or Boston as much as possible. Four classes is the norm, and most people have Tuesday and Friday off due to some scheduling quirk. 
I know a few who take those days to do homework, surf the Internet, sleep, and a few people on my hall head out to the nearby Occupy movements.</p>
<p>I really don’t party, but I know a lot of people that take the free shuttle on weekends to wherever the parties are at, and a lot of Greek societies rush. It’s definitely not a party school though. There are pretty strict rules about alcohol consumption under 21, although enforcement depends on your hall CA. There are “quiet hours,” which generally means you close your door so there’s no noise and make sure you wake up on time the next day. :P</p>
<p>A lot of general hanging out is through clubs and playing casual sports. If you’re not into that stuff, Brandeis may not be for you. Brandeis is also pretty heavy on the social justice thing and is fairly liberal. Judaism is big here, obviously, but you never feel like you’re being forced into anything (which would go against Jewish thought anyway); however, you can’t avoid it either, although that might just have been because Gilad Shalit was recently earlier this month. Either way, it’s usually a nonissue. People in general and the administration are very nice about everything though. :)</p>
<p>I am a current student though, and therefore heavily biased. ;)</p>
<p>Overall vibe:</p>
<p>work load: Very, very, doable. It ranges for every student, but if you’re taking four classes, you will be fine. And if you’re taking five classes, you just learn to manage time better. Professors are really, REALLY, understanding, and accessible. All you need to do is talk to them!</p>
<p>social scene: Definitely active, you just have to want to be a part of it. If you’re not looking for it, it definitely won’t be at your door. Students tend to greatly respect other students’ boundaries and social interests. But if you’re looking for a very social scene, it most definitely exists at Brandeis, and is easily accessible.</p>
<p>The workload is definitely challenging, procrastination is not an option if you want to do well. However the classes are almost always interesting, and the professors are great. If you are pre-med than you should expect to spend a good amount of time at the library, but it is all doable.
Even though fraternities and sororities are not recognized by Brandeis, they exist and houses are right down the road from campus. Contrary to the stereotypical image of a fraternity, the fraternities here are well run, very laid back and organize many events that are fun for everyone, including presentations and semi-formals.
There are also several great club sport teams that you can join that have their own houses, and organize many events as well. Everybody is well connected, and no matter what club, team or organization you are a part of, there is a good chance you will be collaborating with other groups whether you are putting together a party or just going out.</p>