Reed College

I didn't do any drugs at Reed, and I am not the only one who remained sub-free. To be honest, drugs are not as big of a problem on campus as everyone makes it out to be. If you don't want to use drugs, the most you'll have to deal with is the occasional smell of pot in your hallway. As for alcohol, there are parties (if you want to go to them), and there are places to easily avoid them. However, Reed in general is very laid-back about drugs and alcohol. It's not a big deal with you drink or use, but most students don't have a problem/addiction. Those with addictions wouldn't be able to withstand the rigors of Reed for that long, anyway.

If you're worried about drugs at Reed, don't. There isn't a lot of peer pressure (people will accept the first 'no' and you won't be stigmatized for it), and what Reed cares about most is safety and informed experimentation.

Academics:

Reed really is a great place for Academics. Grades aren't entirely absent (e.g., Intro Bio provides a histogram of scores for tests which only lacks numbers), though there is almost no competition. Instead, students like to brag about how little sleep they got because they worked so hard on x assignment. Whatever. The academics are good, professors are fun, knowledgeable, and highly approachable. I'm glad I came here, because I wouldn't want to deal with the same BS of high school when it comes to ranks and points.

BUT:

However, as a small liberal arts college, make sure Reed has the programs you want/are considering. What's the point of going to a great school if you can't learn what you want to?

Social Life:

People who complain of nothing to do are silly. There are concerts (choral, classical, mainly) in Kaul Auditorium regularly. Students are extremely active in creating fun and free events (like Renn Fayre, which is amazing). And, if you don't like the campus, you can surely appreciate Portland.

Financial Aid:

Reed will meet 100% of your demonstrated need, as you probably already know. Of course, you probably already know that your demonstrated need is BS compared to what you actually need, and Reed is expensive. However, Reed is not just full of rich white kids (I am neither rich, nor white). Reed is a great place, but if you're middle class (or if you're not receiving any help from parents), you're probably screwed and coming here won't be worth the debt.