<p>im politically moderate and don't think that obama is the greatest thing since sliced bread (he's been disapointing in my eyes)
anyway, a lot of the reviews for mac say its extremely liberal and im just wondering if its as bad as people make it seem cuz i dont wanna get shunned for political views</p>
<p>first off - i think college in general is a very liberal place to be. I'm glad you started this topic, because, while I am quite liberal - I am sick and tired of close-minded liberalism. I sometimes break away from liberal ideology and people are very unaccepting of viewpoints that do not closely align with any one ideology or political party affiliation. While i think there will be some of this on campus anywhere you go, I think Mac's geographic/ethnic/religious/socioeconomic/sexual orientation/etc. diversity brings a lot to the table - Mac is a place of many viewpoints - many not even "American" and thus there is more open-mindedness because everyone is learning from each other.</p>
<p>Furthermore, I think being a moderate shows that you can see and respect the values of other people and then make a decision based on the viewpoints surrounding any given issue. Overall, I think this gives you more political/personal power because you don't just accept a doctrine without question - you are an independent mind and I think that is something that is well-respected and desired at Mac. Plus - Minnesota is known for its political ambiguity/independence. Don't go by stereotypes ound in college guides, etc. Go for a visit mabe and figure out if it's the place for you - and if not - than you'll definitely find a niche for yourself, politically and otherwise.</p>
<p>Well, i don't go there (yet), but i as a prospective student and liberal, i might as well throw in my two cents.</p>
<p>Politically, I don't entirely care what you believe, as long as you have a * reason * for your beliefs. Be articulate, and I would love to talk about your beliefs and why you hold them. And i won't begrudge you your opinion.</p>
<p>You didn't mention how you lean socially, and I think that would have a far greater effect on your Macalester experience.</p>
<p>Unless you run around cursing "towel-heads" and trying to get gay people to get therapy, I think you'll be fine. Your friends might want to to test drive their Volvo's while listening to NPR as you go get latees, but it won't be that bad.</p>
<p>I am well, frankly, very progressive, but I definitely value more than one perspective. The most important things I asked at my Mac alum interview were, "What are the politics of the students? I've heard most are liberal, but are there any conservatives or republicans? Are they given a fair say?" She said that though the school is largely liberal, there were a fair number of conservatives and they weren't ganged up on in discussions, etc. She said the liberal kids were more active in causes and politics, but that was about it.</p>
<p>You should go if you want no matter your politics. I'm just waiting on my aid packet to decide. </p>
<p>Everyone likes a conservative to spice up discussion, anyway. It gets boring agreeing with everyone. ;)</p>
<p>I started this thread last fall following an open house:</p>
<p>and I was startled by some of the information that came out. Also I received a number of PMs from parents who did not want to go public with their complaints.</p>
<p>My son decided that we shouldn't consider Macalester and we are limiting the search to colleges where the administration makes it clear that there is a commitment to diversity of point of view.</p>
<p>im super liberal but im with you on obama.
im atheist and super pro gay (im straight, but literally all but one of my best guy friends are gay) but my best friend is a super conservative southern baptist.
im not going to mac, but everyone ive talked to from there seems pretty cool and accepting. i think if youre smart (which you obviously are cuz you got into mac) you'll be accepted and make friends all that. ill bet youll be happy there =)
i wish i could go =( but money didnt work out, unfortunately</p>