What is the culture like?

<p>Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to visit Standford yet, in addition to other schools. One of the most important aspects of a school to me is the culture of the place. Does anyone know what the overall student body culture and school is like at Stanford?</p>

<p>(ie: competitiveness, obsession with grades, etc.)</p>

<p>^ I’m boned</p>

<p>What the “culture” is like is totally a matter of personal opinion/experience, but my personal experience has been that the academic culture is not super competitive or cutthroat. People care a lot about their grades but not to the point where they’d try to hurt someone else academically. Most people are laid back and willing to help peers in need of help. Very very few people I know are “obsessed with grades” and if they are, they probably don’t have many friends or much of a social life… I mean who has time for that when there are so many other cool things to see and do with your time, along with getting good grades.
I think the culture, atmosphere and people are the best part of Stanford. Most people are so happy and reassuring which can help when you’re buried in homework or struggling in a class or whatever.</p>