<p>Hey everyone. I am a senior from massachusetts and I just wanted to know a little bit more about the social scene at Furman. I have heard the whole strict campus and no partying comments across the board but I wanted to hear exactly how it is because I can't really find a solid answer.</p>
<p>I am a parent of a student, so my information is what I have been told by students (only a handful) and what I have seen myself.</p>
<p>My D would tell you, you will find what you’re looking for at any school. This includes Furman. I think most students go to the Barn on weeknights. The barn is a local hangout place down the road from campus, it is a bar. 18 and over are admitted. Nightlife downtown is also pretty lively.</p>
<p>The campus is now allowing alcohol in apartments for the students 21 and older. </p>
<p>Seems to me that the students do just fine in the cut loose and have fun department. I do not think it mirrors the social scene at a large state school. If serious partying is your cup of tea- Furman is not the school you want to attend.</p>
<p>If being part of Greek life is for you, you will find what you’re looking for within reason.<br>
I do see Furman students as pretty serious students who work hard and tend to be goal oriented. I also see that they also kick and have fun too.</p>
<p>Can you visit before you commit to the school?</p>
<p>My D has quite a few friends from the Mass area. Maybe you can find someone from home that has a good grasp of the school.</p>
<p>Best wishes!!</p>
<p>Our twins graduated this past May and will tell you you can find a more than adequate social scene at Furman-but you have to remember kids work hard for B’s and the even less frequent A’s. It is not a huge state school with mega parties every night, but the Greek scene provides a lot of social environment and their is a plan for actual housing for Greek organizations. Downtown Greenville is also available on weekends ( and possibly thursdays? for students via the school provided “drunk bus” -students’ name-not mine. There are some really great bars/restaurants, etc with all kinds of music, etc. My personal perspective after four years, is you can have the kind of social life you want-believe me, the students are not stuff shirts. The old reputation of the school being ultra-conservative, is IMO, way off. Even in the mock elections for President held through a student association, Obama has won both times. Visiting is the best way as the prior mom encouraged. The faculty at Furman at incredible-our daughter spent 2 semesters at Georgia Tech ( top 10 national research university) and thought Furman professors were tougher , FWIW. Some of the faculty even entertain students on the weekend. Good luck and try to visit.</p>
<p>Thank you both for helping me out. I am not the party type at all, which is one of the reasons why I asked. I want a place where if I want I can go have some fun with or without alcohol. Furman is my top choice and I have visited campus multiple times but never got an opportunity to ask any students their opinions off the record. Both of your insight definitely helps me out in regards to my decision.</p>
<p>I certainly wouldn’t say most students go to the barn on weekday nights haha. Maybe 2% of students do.</p>
<p>Oh my, I would do well to proof read my posts! Yes, Spurs, I meant weekend nights.</p>
<p>DrDimz, I’m a parent of a freshman son at Furman, and can honestly say son has never been happier in his life! Furman seems to offer all he wanted in a college and more. He did go through rush recently, and is pledging a fraternity, but not everyone does so. And FYI, I met someone last fall who is in a fraternity at Furman and does not drink. So that IS always an option there. </p>
<p>My son spent two nights in the dorm at Furman last April before making his final decision, and has never looked back. Before then, he had decided to attend a large university. Hanging out and attending a class or two really sealed the deal for him. If you can spend the night to meet some students, I think it is a great idea (at whatever school you are seriously considering). Son later received some nice merit money, but the letter didn’t arrive until March or April. </p>
<p>All in all, son would tell you he is working harder than he ever has, but is having the time of his life at Furman. Good luck with your decision!</p>