Swarthmore College
- Campus Strictness

Lenient in a Good Way

Drinking and even drug use on campus is generally tolerated. Parties are rarely, if ever, busted and students under 21 can drink with little hassle. The administration allows students to participate in these activities because Swarthmore students generally can do it responsibly without being disruptive. As for academic policies, do not cheat and you will be fine. They are very strict about that.

Not Strict

Not strict. If you want to drink during parties you can. If you are underage, you have to be slightly more careful. Although it is very rare, once I saw a girl getting cited. If you want to relax and watch a movie, feel free to take over a classroom when no one is around. I don't even know what academic strictness means.

No Problem at All

One of the things I like most about Swarthmore is that everyone here truly wants to help you. Whether it's the deans, Public Safety, or the RAs, no one is out to get you. It's virtually impossible to get in trouble unless you end up in the hospital, have a serious drug problem that interferes with academics/community functioning, or are running a club out of your dorm room (no, really). Even then, we have a dean whose sole job is to help you with alcohol or drug abuse problems and with any legal issues that come up. He'll even go to court and talk to the judge for you. RAs never bust anyone, but they do keep an eye on you because they really care.