Questions and Concerns about Princeton

<p>Hello, all:
I wasn't initially planning on applying to Princeton, but I've sort of fallen in love with it. I have a few questions and concerns, however:
First, what is grade deflation really like? Does it negatively affect students' chances of getting into graduate programs or winning prestigious fellowships like the Marshall, Truman, or Rhodes Scholarships? Does it contribute to a cutthroat or overly stressful atmosphere? Is the administration really planning on getting rid of it, and if so, when?
Secondly, how would you characterize the student body? I realize this requires a massive, probably unfair generalization, but usually some sort of conclusion can be drawn about a college's "vibe," or overall attitude. Are most students "preppy" and wealthy? Would I be looked down upon as someone from a middle-class family who went to a public school in the Midwest?
Thirdly, what is the political scene like? Are students more apathetic or involved in activism? Is the prevailing attitude conservative, moderate, or liberal?
Is Princeton welcoming of gay students? Is there a sizable LGBT presence? Are gays welcomed in eating clubs?
Finally, I would appreciate any information or opinions on the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. Academically, is it more practical or theoretical?
Don't feel you have to answer all these questions, I just would like some opinions on these issues.
Thanks!</p>

<p>I recommend reading their school newspaper online and reviewing their student organizations. Much of the information you are looking for can be found there. Also, I’m sure you can contact the LGBT office at Princeton to speak with someone directly.</p>

<p>Yes, I’ve read the viewbook and their website. I wanted to know more about what students, alumni, or people who are familiar with Princeton thought, as sometimes that can differ from what the viewbooks say.</p>

<p>The school newspaper will give you a different perspective then their viewbook especially editorials. Also google for student reviews. I know Princeton has a wide variety of LGBT groups on campus so I would imagine the best source of information on that would be by calling since they have an entire LGBT office which would also tell me they are quite supportive. Best of luck to you finding alumni or current students who can tell you more.</p>

<p>grade deflation policy is done; <a href=“http://dailyprincetonian.com/news/2014/08/princeton-committee-recommends-end-of-grade-deflation-era/”>http://dailyprincetonian.com/news/2014/08/princeton-committee-recommends-end-of-grade-deflation-era/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>

Not at all. Like most Princeton students, my son was on need based aid and had attended a public high school. Midwest? That’s mainstream compared to our obscure Mountain Time Zone location. He never reported any elitism or discrimination, and overall had a wonderful experience at Princeton.</p>

<p>Grade deflation has been abolished however, if you are STEM student its still pretty much the norm. </p>

<p>Grade deflation isn’t a thing anymore. We’ll see if anything changes. But even with grade deflation, I don’t personally think the atmosphere was particularly competitive. It kinda seems more like a we’re-all-fighting-the-same-battle type of thing (Princeton students, feel free to disagree).</p>

<p>It’s really difficult to answer the student body question. You might have to be more specific. But no, you wouldn’t be looked down upon as someone from a middle-class family who went to a public school in the Midwest. </p>

<p>The campus as a whole isn’t strongly involved in activism, but the groups that are involved make sure their voices are heard, no doubt. And they often are. (check the Daily Princetonian for stuff going on right now regarding divestment.)</p>

<p>As someone who is gay, I can say that Princeton is definitely welcome of gay students. It’s not necessarily the absolute best place for LGBT students, as I know people who have had negative experiences here, but that’s not the case for most students. Additionally, the LGBT Center, along with various student groups, works to make the University a more and more inclusive place. In regard to eating clubs, there are definitely those that are known to be particularly welcoming of LGBT students, like Terrace, which hosts a drag ball every year. </p>

<p>Sorry, not a Woody Woo major :/</p>