<p>Having read many posts here for several schools that are on my son's radar, I know that a standard answer to the question "will I fit in?" is that there are all kinds of kids at every school. Nevertheless, after visiting WF and reading some posts, it seems there is a definite very preppy, rich vibe there. People were all VERY friendly, though.</p>
<p>S is a small-town midwestern kid who doesn't dress to impress. Isn't into politics. Or partying. He is on the quiet side, and has very good personal character. Our concern is that while I'm sure he can find people he fits in with, is this group going to be outside the mainstream at WF? I don't think he will be happy if he's out on the fringe.</p>
<p>Your son and I sound a lot alike! As a first year student, I have to agree that Wake is, generally, very "preppy" in terms of fashion norms. You very quickly learn to identify the three most prized animal logos- the Polo horse, the Lacoste alligator, and the Vineyard Vines whale (I'm SURE there are more!) But the truth is, your son will develop some pretty incredible friendship bonds here. I felt the same way as your son after reading all the reviews and posts, but in the entire semester I spent at Wake, I haven't once doubted my decision. </p>
<p>Drinking is HUGE on campus, but I don't think there's a huge amount of peer pressure involved. People will do it, but if you say "no thanks" at a party, you will generally be "respected." I think your son may be a good fit for the sub free housing (which I'm in now and LOVE). In terms of student politics, etc. Wake is right-leaning, but probably becoming more liberal. If your son is apathetic, he won't have a problem; it's not forceful here, but you'll here about it from time to time. </p>
<p>I also was a little unconvinced about being on a social "fringe," being a non-drinker, devoted student, and a little quiet. What I've found is that Wake is not like high school, where there is a social nucleus or "coolest clique." Everyone breaks off into their own groups in the first few weeks. Sure, there are frats/rushers, etc, but I would advise your son not to worry about being part of a great social group at Wake. As long as he's active on campus, in clubs, activities, etc. he'll have a great time (and hopefully learna a lot!) Wake (and probably any other school) can be incredible if you get involved, but it can also be lonely if you stay in your dorm all day.</p>
<p>Best wishes for your son and his college choice; please feel free to shoot me a message if you have questions regarding student life, etc!</p>
<p>There's a preppy contingent at WFU, but I'd argue that you'd actually see more people wearing a t-shirt, sweater, or sweathshirt than clothing with said animal emblem if you walk through the quad or in the Pit.</p>
<p>Well, sorry for the "wrong" info, I guess.
Not saying you can't graduate or anything if you don't wear that sort of thing, just that it IS there, although it is probably more of a first year thing.</p>
<p>Honestly, if you don't fit in at Wake you are the problem.
Your son will be fine, he sounds a bit like me, except that I am very economically liberal :)
As long as you are a good person, I think you will fit in.</p>
<p>Alligator here. I would say that these worries of "fitting in" are vastly overblown. It's really surprising to still see these questions 4 years after applying to Wake.</p>
<p>If you believe you/your son won't fit in here... where's he going to fit it? Because I'll tellya, Tier 1 schools like Wake are very much like other top schools around the country. Most of these other school's students are very much like Wake's. Economically-speaking, etc.</p>
<p>If anything, I think Wake is more accepting and inclusive than other (private) schools. Unless you're thinking of going public school, it don't get all that much more inclusiver than Wake.</p>