<p>So can you be happy here if you don't drink or smoke? What are the other social options? Thought the party animal reputation was fading.</p>
<p>I'm curious about this too. My son had written Denison off after his overnight last fall. <em>Way</em> too many kids drinking specifically to get drunk. Now that he's heard from all the schools, Denison is back in contention, but I'd sure appreciate some reassuring words about what else kids do on weekends there besides party party party.</p>
<p>Ingerp and applicantmum--Your son and daughter are looking at some of the same schools my older daughter did two years ago. ... We had similar reservations about Denison's famed party scene, but were told that they've taken steps in recent years toward softening that reputation--like breaking up the frat houses on campus. ... As we've since discovered, it's the rare campus that doesn't have its share of rampant partying. You just have to hope you're own son/daughter has the sense to experience the joys of college life within the bounds of safety and propriety. I look forward to seeing what schools they end up choosing!</p>
<p>my D (a senior) is/was not a drinker or party-er. We, too, were a bit afraid of the party rep of Denison but she did fine -- found many like-minded kids and other activities. THe school has done a lot, I think, in last 8 years or so to curb the partying. It seem to be working, but like an earlier post said... still goes on at all college campuses.</p>
<p>I agree with what has been said. I live in Columbus and know of the party scene it used to have. A lot of kids were doing hardcore drugs and drinking non-stop. It was very typical 1990s -- it was the type of college experience you would expect if you only knew college through the lens of Hollywood movies (sex, drugs, alcohol, and loud music). But the school has tried to clean up the "rich kid party school" image and is taking itself more seriously. There's still drinking and drugs but it's not nearly to the point that you won't fit in if you don't engage in such activity. Certain dorms are more party-oriented than others.</p>
<p>The main separator, I think, of students is race, not drug/alcohol use. Denison students tend to hang out with people of the same race, unfortunately.</p>
<p>Again, this is all observation through the perspective of someone who grew up not too far from the university.</p>
<p>I agree with egrcat.</p>
<p>My D (a freshman) doesn't drink or smoke and has found a huge circle of freinds who are like-minded. It is college, and they are young adults so some will but most will not.</p>