<p>I'm a happy ED acceptee to Cornell, and I know I'll be able to find what I want academically-with such various course offerings, I'll definitely be satisfied. However, I'm more curious about the social scene; I'm certainly not a shy person in high school, and have a great group of friends. However, I hate the whole idea of drinking-the stench, the hangovers, etc. I understand completely that it will be at any college (especially one the size of Cornell), but will I be pressured to engage in alcohol if I want to "fit in" socially?</p>
<p>As well, I have heard horror stories about frats-basically, they decide whether or not you're "good enough" to join them, and they are supposedly very cliquey. Is that so, as well? The statistic that 1/3 of Cornell is greek somewhat scares me...does this mean if I'm not going greek, I won't be able to socialize/go to fun events?</p>
<p>Any comments regarding aspects of Cornell social life in general would be appreciated.</p>
<p>the frat scene is only as much of your social life as you want it to be. I enjoy drinking a lot. My friends enjoy drinking a lot. I also have friends that drink maybe twice a month, or not at all. They still have a good time. The key to a good social life at cornell is finding the group that you fit in with, and this is not as hard as it sounds. If you are up to meeting new people and expanding your circle beyond your floor or dorm you will find a good group of friends.</p>
<p>also, IMHO, the fun social events do involve drinking, but that is only my opinion. Seriously, you will find what ever it is you want to do here.</p>
<p>i go to parties rarely–but when i do i go all out so that kinda makes up for it. Anyways, in the interim there are always other things to do, people to hang out with, etc. I, for example, play basketball with friends at HN gym most friday and saturday nights. Others go ice-skating, bowling,to the movies, or some other event. There are usually some organization-hosted events that can range from a meet-and-greet, to bringing someone who is influential to that particular organization’s cause to speak.</p>
<p>I’m like wrightspig - don’t drink and still having lots of fun with my friends. Lots of students go out to drink, but lots of people also just prefer to stay sober. Either way, you can still have a good time.</p>
<p>Here’s what I think: there’s too many people at Cornell for you to not be able to find a circle of friends that share your interests and lifestyle.</p>
<p>While you don’t have to drink, you should definitely go out and experience some of the parties…they’re part of a unique college experience, and the ones at Cornell are usually pretty decent.</p>
<p>I think the “drinking” scene is good thing to experience at Cornell and overall is fun. Just remember, going out and drinking isn’t actually about drinking, but being with friends. I didn’t drink at all my first semester, but I still went out once or twice a week to frats and enjoyed myself with friends. Most people won’t pressure you to drink.</p>