Southern Methodist University

Date: Apr 30 2009
Major: Undecided (This Major's Salary over time)
I chose SMU pretty much because I had no idea where to go. I had heard the negative opinions on the "elitist' atmosphere; however, I went in with a positive attitude.To explain how "involved" they are, I was wrriten up during orientation for "suspected" marijuana usage, which I did not participate in. I do not know why I was reported by a camp leader; however, my first day there was spent talking to the Dean of Student Life. Coincidentally, the RA became my suitmate when moving day occurred(you make the assumptions). Residence living is similar to a retirement home: a lot of strict regulations and RAs who love their job. Dorm parties are risky, which is a great facotr as to why my next sentence makes sense. The Greek life does rule the school. Statistics show that 33% of female and 30% of males are involved with Greek life, but those numbers are greatly inaccurate. About 6000 are undergraduates and 4000 graduate students. Tell me, what graduate students are in a fraternity/sorority? Practically None…the percentage of "true" greek participation is a lot higher if they would measure solely the undergradute population. Is this all bad? It all depends on a personal level. That's the main point here. The campus atmosphere is indeed filled with matierialistic students with their range rovers; however, if you search for down-to-earth people you can find them. I will admit that I desire a different atmosphere where the percentage of down-to-earth/snooty people are reversed. Personally, I feel intimated by the somewhat unapproachable wealthy students. I did put a good foot; howver, my confidence and positivity could not endure. I do not put down people for being wealthy or well-off, it's just sometimes hard for an outsider to connect with their ideas. I plan on tranferring elsehwere and advise other people with a similar mindset as myself to greatly evaluate if SMU is a fit for them.