<p>I have the same problem at my Liberal Arts Univ, with about 4000 kids. I just transfered to the aforementioned one from another that only had 1800 kids, but the social environment is about the same even though the actual people are SO differet. Stand-offish, insecure, shy, pretentious, or fake pretentiousness in order to fit in. I’ve come to the conclusion that I should’ve gone to a much much bigger school. At least 10,000 kids, but probably state college level size (30,000+). You just don’t get the open, diverse, dynamic, easy going, and fun for everyone college experience at a small private school. Biggest mistake of my life so far since I’m going to be a Junior next year, and transfer deadlines have passed. I’m actually thinking about taking a year off, exploring life, working, etc., and then heavily researching schools/feverishly applying to those desired schools so as to get the social experience I want. The stereotypical college experience. All of my friends at A&M, FSU, UT, and UCF absolutely LOVE their situations, and none of my friends went to small liberal arts school. What was I thinking!!</p>
<p>Moral of the story, kids, research research research where you want to go, and more importantly, know what you want, not what you want to want. </p>
<p>Oh, and I’ve lived in dorms my whole college experience. It IS a great way to meet people, but it the life does tend to die down after Freshman year, unless you know people.</p>