Hello. My son is admitted to SMU business school and we’re deciding if it will be a good fit for him. I’m hoping some of you with firsthand knowledge of SMU can share your opinions and knowledge with me regarding SMU’s culture, activities and social scene. I’ve heard things like “preppy”, “cliquey”, “snobby” about SMU. Is this true or just a stereotype? He is social and would probably want to join a fraternity. What are fraternity guys like? We don’t have excess money for him to spend on his time off etc and I’m wondering if it would be a problem socially, like he couldn’t keep up with his peers who are more affluent. Is this a valid concern? Also, he likes being active and doing things outside. What kinds of things do the students do in their “free time?” Any and all knowledge, thoughts and opinions are welcome. Thanks!
My experience with SMU Cox is recruiting students for many years. I also know grads and some are my D20’s friends.
Have you visited? If you’re able to visit, you’ll get a good feel for campus and future classmates by touring Cox facilities.
My experience recruiting students is that students are really sharp and motivated. I’m not seeing the Alt Assets kids because I recruit for corporate finance. Sure, there are some very rich students but most are cool.
My D20 joined a sorority and has really enjoyed it. I get the feeling that if you’re super rich, and nice, you have a greater shot at a “top house” — frat or sorority. And even then it’s not like the frat is full of super rich. Same goes on at UT too. Fiji, SAE (if on campus), etc.
I believe business majors go Greek more than the overall student body. Under half of my interviewees were Greek. I like the involvement but also look for internships and strong grades.
Back to your inquiry, sure there are cliques everywhere but rush (if you want) and you’ll find your people and have a great time. As far as extravagant spending and vacations, there’s always opportunities to spend but mostly these are regular college kids who get coffee, have mixers (masked I hope), go out to dinner at reasonable places, etc. They also walk or run the Katy Trail quite a bit and go to Dedman to exercise. Lots of study groups too.
My daughter and friends are going to Seaside FL for a few days. Not particularly extravagant but they’re blessed to be able to go. Hope that helps.
Thank you so much for your insight! The more knowledge we can gain the better and I appreciate you taking the time to comment. We haven’t visited yet. Looking to go next month possibly. I’m sure they will give us a lot of answers.