<p>My son was admitted, as a transfer student, to both Vanderbilt and Wheaton. He plans to study psychology and economics, hoping to finish with a law degree or an MBA degree. He will be a sophomore this fall and we feel he can do fine academically. Right now, Vanderbilt is his number one choice but he is anxious about the social scene. Our problem is that he is socially reticent, and shy. We had a tour in March, and got the impression that Vanderbilt is a school of big partiers, with a lot of socially gregarious young people. Will he feel lost in the social, jet set crowd of Vanderbilt students? Are there any Vandy students who can shed some info on the social scene for someone who doesn't drink, plans to join a Christian group like Campus Crusade, yet still likes to go to concerts?</p>
<p>Vanderbilt does have a very social campus. However, there are many welcoming clubs such as BYX or other Christian groups that have a large presence of campus. I think the campus is large enough where he will find his group. In terms of concerts, Rites of Spring is this weekend with 20 Bands playing on two stages.</p>
<p>Hey, thanks for the info. But, do you know any guys who don't drink? And what is there to do on a Friday or Saturday night if you don't party?</p>
<p>There are plenty of people at Vanderbilt who don't drink and party at the frats five nights a week. He can hang out with friends, go out to dinner, hang out at starbuck's or borders (great place to waste a couple of hours on the weekend). He can stay in his room and do homework if it so pleases him (I've done it, there's nothing wrong with it).</p>
<p>At any school your son decides to attend, there will be social pressures. It is something everyone has to go through at some point of their life so the actual college attended will not have a large influence in that.</p>
<p>I agree. The maturity that comes from living on a campus for four years is invaluable. I believe that Vanderbilt does have a socially active campus, but he wanted that more than the pressure of studying all weekend. Since he is transferring from Penn State - main campus, we are a little anxious in not wanting to replicate that atmosphere.</p>