So I was recently accepted at Colgate and am currently deciding between it and one other school. I really love the academics, beautiful campus, alumni network, off-campus study, etc., but my one lingering concern keeping me from putting in my deposit is whether I would fit in socially. I don’t have any interest in joining a fraternity, I’m quite liberal politically, I’m about the least athletic person you’ll ever meet, and while I don’t mind drinking or anything like that I can’t really see myself getting super absorbed by the hard-partying culture Colgate is known for. Would I find my niche? I really love Colgate and everything it offers as an institution but I want a social life that’s in line with my personal sensibilities as well. Thanks for your help!
No one knows your personal circumstances, expectations and willingness/readiness to adapt and participate in extracurricular life at Colgate better than you.
So…Your choice.
Good luck with your selection!
Doc, I originally wrote a version of this elsewhere, but it may apply to your concerns as well: for future Colgate students seriously concerned about the social mix at Colgate, remember that once you are at the University, then you are Colgate, as much as any other student there.
Colgate, like many colleges, seeks diversity. They may have accepted you, and other students with similar interests, actually in preference to their common “type.” In some ways, that’s something you will have going for you.
Good luck with your decision.
My graduating ds is not a frat member. He is having the time of his life at Colgate.
The Colby thread, “Positive or Negative,” also relates to your question.
This is basically my dilemma. Even though I’m worried that the more intellectual/nerdy types wouldn’t be as prevalent as more preppy students, part of me knows that Colgate is still very diverse, and you’re bound to find your niche eventually. We’re accepted for a reason–because we have a passion for learning, and there’s bound to be a multitude of other students who share the same qualities. If you feel Colgate offers an ideal setting and amazing opportunities for you to pursue your passions, then follow your heart and choose the place you’d know you’d succeed academically. (if only I could take my own advice…)
Thanks for the responses. Portraiture, that sounds exactly like how I feel. Where else are you deciding between?
Thanks 
Colgate and Colby. They’re so extremely similar, I’m having a hard time deciding. I might visit Colby soon since I visited Colgate and really love it!
I’m deciding between Colgate and Bates, guess those Maine schools are giving it a run for its money haha
Ahh that’s a tough choice too. I don’t know much about Bates academically, but if you’re looking to study science like me, I just know Colgate has a lot of research opportunities/resources, and that’s what’s making me want to choose it haha. Even though I’m sure Colby and Bates have similar qualities as well.
Nah I’m probably gonna do political science/pre-law, and they’re both great for that. Colgate has Peace and Conflict Studies as well which is a plus for them.
Nice! I hope you figure out which college is right for you 
Thanks, you too