Clemson University

Date: Nov 28 2005
Major: Political Science (This Major's Salary over time)
Clemson has been an interesting experience thus far. I had low expectations coming to this university but have since come to enjoy myself here. Much of this enjoyment stems from the friends that I have made here. I have learned to love the game day atmosphere during the Fall despite being opposed to the whole idea since my highschool days. Be prepared to see your alcohol tolerance skyrocket as a direct result of Clemson football though.

As regards to my general perceptions of the student body, I would say that regardless of who you are, there are plenty of people here to befriend. The criticism that you find of the fraternity/sororiety crowd is mostly stereotypical tripe. I have made several friends with fraternity guys on an individual level. Many are geniune folks who just wanted to be a part of a very socially active group. If you don't want to join a frat for the usual reasons, there are many other opportunities for social interaction that the university provides. Intermural sports are one example. Clubs are another. Student media also provides this (I work at the student-run radio station WSBF). Student organizations receive much support (financially,etc) from the university and are very active. Nearly every day, you can see groups passing out information on the library bridge, for example.

The arts community here is actually pretty decent. Sure, this ain't Greenwich Village , but there are a few things going on that have struck my interest. The radio station hosts a number of independent bands for shows. The theatre department puts on a number of quality performances. National acts come to our colliseum (Dave Chappelle, etc). The arts department hosts touring galleries of artists from around the country. Independent film makers regularly come to Clemson to show and discuss their work through a university sponsored program. Poetry readings on and off campus happen quite regularly. If you aren't satisfied here, you can always drive a few hours to Athens or Atlanta (I do all the time to see shows).

This is a good Southeastern school. As a Southern fellow myself, I am quite comfortable here. You've got mountains and lakes all within close driving distance. You've got a number of attractive towns nearby. The campus is beautiful and inviting. The people are generally friendly and helpful. The parties are great (and not just frat parties, which I don't go to). The educational value is good, even for non-engineering students. The degree you get at the end is worth something as this university is pretty well recognized around the country if for nothing else than its football program. It took me a while to get adjusted here but I've found my niche and enjoy it now. Most detractors or transfers of this university haven't fully exposed themselves to what Clemson has to offer. The fees are reasonable to boot.