<p>I'm new here and this is my first post, so let me know if I am doing anything wrong. Anyway, I went to a college counselor last week (I'm going into junior year of high school) and she told me I should definitely look at UPenn because it seemed to fit both my academics, extra-curriculars, and personality. My real question is how is the social life there? I heard it revolves around fraternities, is that true and how selective are they? Finally, is it hard to make new friends when you first arrive as a freshmen? Also, I am a fairly sociable person who enjoys meeting new people and I'm a guy in case that means anything.</p>
<p>It’s usually considered the most social ivy, but the social scene probably pales in comparison to the average public state university.</p>
<p>UPenn looked like a pretty social place to me when I visited there. After all, it’s hard to stay a recluse in downtown Philadelphia.</p>
<p>Penn can be a very social place for those who want it to be. Social life does NOT revolve around fraternities, which I say even though I am in one. </p>
<p>Almost every group at Penn, be it an academically focused extracurricular, community service group, performing arts group, and everything else, throws its own parties and has its own social scene. As long as you’re involved in something, an active social life will be available to you. </p>
<p>Fraternities certainly do make up some of the social life, but greek life by no means dominates the entire scene. Penn is way too diverse for that.</p>
<p>I am not into greek life but I can also vouch for a social life beyond that. No one from my school ever gone to penn so starting over fresh you’ll find is quite refreshing. Definitely take advantage of the awkwardness of being new because everyone is feeling that way. The first few weeks, you could join any table, introduce yourself. Don’t sit alone but even if you do, most likely someone will join you eventually. </p>
<p>The NSO late night events are also a good way to make lasting friendships. These usually feature an organization. With everyone having different schedules, the friendships you make through extracurricular activities tend to be stronger.</p>