Written by Peter Goldschmidt
In the beginning, the possibilities for going out seem nonexistent and as if there is nothing to do but hang out in the Greek life arena. But Dallas has several well-known and eclectic venues tucked away all over the city. The major nightlife scene caters to an older and more sophisticated crowd, and the only challenge is to avoid becoming comfortable in the same bars and clubs-keep trying new ones! Students tend to find their favorite nightlife spots and hold tight until they graduate. For those who are under the drinking age and enjoy live music, there are music spots not far from campus, such as the Granada and the Gypsy Tea Room, which host bands on a nightly basis. If you're really feeling adventurous, head down to Deep Ellum and walk the enormous strip of clubs. Most only require a small cover charge to get in, and there are a number of clubs specifically for people under 21. But turning 21 changes everything. It not only means that you can get into the SMU favorites, like Chaucer's and Margarita Ranch, but that you can actually legally partake in the fervor of getting wasted.
For freshmen girls, frat parties are great because it's free beer and a close walk home. On the weekends though, the campus becomes completely desolate, minus the buses for Greek parties. Other groups, such as athletes, partake in the social scene and throw a few of the biggest parties aside from Greeks. There are also always parties in people's homes, so there is no reason to ever complain that there is nothing to do on a Friday night. This school offers a brilliant networking system, both on the career side and unintentionally through nightlife. Whether you are relaxing with a movie, some friends, and beer, or out at a club or bar, going to all different kinds of parties is the best way to meet new people.