<p>I often hear that Dartmouth is the only "conservative" Ivy, and wonder how that translates in terms of respect for students who are committed Christians. I don't mean proselytizing Christians, just those for whom faith is an important part of daily life, and who conduct themselves accordingly. Would they fit in?
Thanks</p>
<p>I know there is a pretty popular Christian group called Navigators (Navs) at Dartmouth. I've talked to some people at the school who are part of this group, and they say that it adds a huge amount to their experience and it's where most of their best friends come from. But I think that like most schools, the student body in general is pretty liberal and non-religious. Did you hear about the incident a year or two ago where the class president mentioned Jesus in his speech to incoming freshman and got totally attacked for it? I think he even ended up stepping down. But I guess that might fit under the category of a "proselytizing Christian." If you're just looking for other students who share your beliefs but aren't trying to convert people, I'm sure you'll be fine.</p>
<p>I completely agree with buwinnifred about Dartmouth's religious atmosphere. While Dartmouth really can't be characterized as conservative, there is much acceptance of religious expression on campus. I have friends in Navs and friends who spend a lot of time at the Aquinas House (the Catholic student center). Despite the fact that some students took offense to Riner's mention of Jesus in his welcome speech, the majority of students are very open to all religions. There are many student groups on campus catering to diverse religions (Hinduism, Islam, etc) and I have never heard of any students experiencing hardships based on their practice of their religion.</p>
<p>My son, a class 2010, has just started a prayer meeting at his dorm, as he found there are quite a lot of his dormmates are Christians. Whenever talking about his growth of all aspects at Dartmouth, he always put the spiritual part on the top. The fellowship, Sunday service and a cappella group have been a very important part of his life at Dartmouth. In addition to that, he is extremely happy there.</p>
<p>The comments in this thread, and the one started by Morangotango, are very helpful. Dartmouth seems to elicit a great deal of conflicting opinions, even at a site like this one. There are a pair of dads over in the cafe who seem intent on casting Dartmouth as some kind of degenerate Skid Row, even though as far as I can tell they have no personal experience there. I appreciate all the informed responses. Thanks.</p>
<p>My S is a '10 and while he ultimately chose to belong to the Navigators, we were impressed with the pamphlet mailed to him over the summer that outlined the variety of religious options available--including different flavors of Christian groups. Yes there is a lot of drinking and partying going on, but not everyone is a degenerate. And even if the number of committed Christians were few, if your faith is strong and has been tested, then that shouldn't discourage you. After all, what will become of the world if the salt of the earth never leaves the shaker?</p>