Written by Christopher McDonald
Any student beginning a college career will pass through the phase of questioning his or her decision. For Vanderbilt students, this phase is a short one. The beauty and excitement of campus quickly pushes away any negative thoughts. Southern hospitality is alive and strong around Vanderbilt, and for those out-of-towners, it’s usually a welcome surprise. Taking the time to meet new people, whether they are Southern natives or people from across the country, will make the transition from high school to college a lot smoother. Finding your niche at any college is the most important thing to having a successful four years. Vanderbilt is big enough to accommodate almost anyone’s desires and small enough to make this campus feel like home for the years you spend here.
While Vanderbilt has a lot of positive qualities, it isn’t the best choice for everyone. Choosing Vanderbilt means choosing to be in a situation where name-brand clothes and high-end cars have a certain amount of importance. Most students come from white upper-class families, and while they may not all fit the stereotype of wealthy snobs, money is in abundance for most on campus. More than anything, however, choosing Vanderbilt means choosing an extremely difficult and intense academic institution. You will pull your share of all-nighters, sit through any number of obvious “weed-out courses,” stress out over harsh grading curve, and panic when professors refuse to move deadlines despite countless other exams and papers. But thankfully, Vanderbilt embodies a work-hard, play-hard lifestyle. The second you make it through the more hellacious periods of school, there will be countless opportunities to throw all cares aside and enjoy your time at Vanderbilt.