The University of Alabama

Date: Apr 13 2008
Major: Philosophy (This Major's Salary over time)
Greek life isn't essential to have a social life here, but I would admit that it is the easiest available conduit to new friends at the University. However, as all Freshmen now live in dorms, it shouldn't be too big of a problem to meet people in your dorm and make some lasting friendships. I came up here with about 25 high school mates and really only hang out with 1 or 2 of them still. However, I've got at least 3 really good friends from out of state, and at least 40 to 50 more that I've met in classes and activities. The University is accommodating with its availability of extra-curriculars and intramural sports activities. The campus is very aesthetically pleasing, in generally good shape, and the recreation center is second to none. There's nothing quite like Alabama Football in the fall, either. Even if you're not a fan, the experience should still be quite enthralling. As for the city of Tuscaloosa, there isn't a whole lot to do outside of drinking or going to a movie. T-Town doesn't have a particularly large amount of culture, and there aren't any great bars. There are tons of bars, but most of them are usually jam-packed, have really loud (often really bad) bands, are uncannily smoky, and serve all their drinks in clear plastic cups (I'm not a toddler, don't worry; I won't drop my little sippy cup!) I really think how one perceives the social scene depends a lot on how one spends time with friends. Bars can be fun, but friends are often much more so. All in all, Alabama's a good school that has great faculty members and academic programs (if you REALLY know what you're looking for) that provides a variety of opportunities that cover almost anything imaginable. Though some aspects of the Greek life may seem over-the-top or alienating, keep in mind that only 20% of the school is Greek…