Social Scene
One of the first things many freshmen notice about Guilford is how friendly everyone is. Students of different religious, sexual, ethnic, and regional backgrounds seem to get along and listen to each other's thoughts, even if they don't always agree. This may sound rather idealistic, but if anything, most of the community pretends to be open-minded, and then complains about other people later in private. There may be some social wars between different peer groups, but they don't tend to be as vicious as they might be in other places, and certainly not as bad as high school. Guilford is a small community, however, and social groups often overlap, so rumors spread faster than lightning. Knowledge of parties and gatherings also spread fast, but not always as fast as security can break them up. However, don't think that it is impossible to keep a secret. Most are not traitors to campus life, and few students will "snitch" on each other, unless it is a serious disturbance to others. People do tend to be cliquish in some respects, but there is more ruling out of certain social groups than sticking to one particular circle. For example, the sports people are often very alienated from the rest of campus—in their own separate, little world—and do not normally associate with anyone else unless necessary. This is more common for some sports, especially varsity football. There is lots of overlapping between groups, at least in secondary circles of friends. The nerds and geeks (who proudly call themselves so) mix with the freaks and hippies, and vice-versa. Druggies and non-druggies overlap, as well, although maybe not always to their knowledge. The substance users' population is rather clandestine and mostly very tight and cautious. The clubs and organizations naturally drive relationships, as well, such as WQFS, the Yachting Club, and the Co-Op people. Everyone seems to get along well, minus any animosity towards or from the athletic population. Overall, students are outgoing, interested in meeting new people, and welcoming to everyone they encounter.