Hey, I'm not a huge partier and prefer a quieter, academically focused environment. I've heard of the term 'socially dead' in this context, but let's stick to 'quiet'. Anyone have suggestions for colleges that might fit?
Sure, it sounds like you're interested in schools where academics take center stage. Keep in mind, though, every college will have a mix of social scenes and you can usually find your niche with like-minded peers no matter where you go.
That said, schools often described as more "quiet" include the University of Chicago, famously quoted for being the place where "fun goes to die". Of course, this is in jest, as many students find plenty of fun things to do there. It's just that academic pursuits take priority. Similarly, Swarthmore College is known for its rigorous academics land it often gets called a "nerdy" campus.
MIT and Caltech, both top science and engineering schools, also frequently get mentioned. These schools have a heavy workload which often leads to more time studying and less time partying. However, again, there are student clubs and organizations that provide outlets for fun and relaxation.
The Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) list also includes several smaller liberal arts schools that have a reputation for being more focused on academics, but still provide supportive and engaging communities.
Hope this helps. Remember to visit the campuses if you can, talk to current students, and do your own research to get a feel for the culture at different schools. That's the best way to find a place where you'll feel comfortable and happy.
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