Hi, I got accepted to Richmond and most likely would enroll here 
I like everything about Richmond, but there is still one thing that concerns me: social life at Richmond. I’m a reserved, introverted international student, and I usually only enjoy a small group of close friends. Most of my current close friends are also Asian - probably due to the fact that we all live in the same dorm and got really close. I have U.S friends too, but there are still cultural barriers and I cannot get as close to them as I am with my Asian friends.
I heard that Richmond is heavily centered on greek life, and there’s a rumor that Richmond students are preppy, entitled rich kids who like partying, etc. I’m not a partier, but I still want to fit in and make many friends in college. Would that be possible? I don’t want to join sororities (does that affect the opportunities for socializing and networking a lot)? but I’m interested in many clubs at Richmond. Personality-wise, I’m generally nice and friendly, but I can only be really talkative when I’m around my close friends and feel comfortable. Are students at Richmond friendly, nice, approachable and down-to-earth? Would they judge me based on clothes, looks, family background (I’m low-income), or whether I’m in a sorority or not? One more thing, I’m slightly nerdy and enjoy intellectual conversations. Would it be hard for me to find my niche at Richmond?
Also, I don’t know if this is appropriate to ask, but what is the dating scene at Richmond like? I’m more into serious, long and meaningful relationships than casual hook-ups. How are the guys at Richmond, in general?
Thank you very much!
This is just that… a rumor.
UR is very diverse in terms of economic background because of their generous financial aid and scholarships. I and many of my friends would not be able to afford to attend without our scholarships and/or financial aid.
Many people don’t party here and that’s totally accepted. By the way, only about 35% of campus is involved in greek life- not at all centered around greek life at all. In fact, the frats and sororities don’t even have houses that they live in- they have lodges and cottages on the far end of campus for parties, but live in the dorms with everyone else. I’ ve never even been to a greek party personally, and many of my friends and I don’t even drink.
UR is very non-judgmental. You will NOT be judged based on clothes, looks, family background, or whether you participate in greek life. There’s a group for everyone- not hard to find your niche at all!
Most people at UR who are looking for relationships are looking for longterm relationships.
@guineagirl96 Thank you for your response! I got that impression from CollegeReviews, Niche and some CC posts. It’s great that it’s just a rumor Sorry if my question offended you in any way - I couldn’t visit Richmond so most of the things I heard about UR’s social life are rumors from the internet. It’s a great relief that Richmond has more diversity than I thought, and is non-judgmental.
Btw, I heard that Richmond has the non-substance housing option? Is it only available for freshman girls? Thanks again.
@monolid I wasn’t offended at all by your question
Yes, there are substance-free housing options. It’s available for freshman girls, and co-ed upperclassmen, but the latter can be hard to get a spot in.
@guineagirl96 okay thank you
So it’s available for freshman girls but not guys…hmmm. Can someone comment on roughly what percentage of students drink a nontrivial amount?
My son is at Richmond now. He sounds a lot like you - reserved, non partier,a little nerdy, non preppy and not wealthy. He has never been happier! He loves the small classes, the great professors and the beautiful and good sized campus (not too big, not too small). He’s made some great friends and enjoys being in several clubs. Hope it works out as well for you
@twinsmom15 That’s great to hear! Thank you!
I know this post was from a while ago, but it really helped me. I am also a nonparty, nerdy, person. I really like U of R and 100 percent of my aid was met. From what I am reading, I will probably (after a visit) go to U of R. Thanks.