The student body, specifically our well-roundedness and character, sets Dartmouth above and beyond the quality of other esteemed institutions, such as Harvard. As peculiar as it seems, however, we condemn and devalue these elements within the confines of the campus.
Now, think about these three questions and what they have in common: (1) Why are "romantic" relationships so rare at Dartmouth? (2) Why are cliques so clearly delineated? (3) Why is Dartmouth falling behind in overall satisfaction ratings?
The answer to all three is simply stated, but complex by definition: a lack of respect between individuals. It seems silly that at a college of our merit, we should suffer from such a deviously ignorant phenomenon.
Individuality has sadly fled our presence. Those who choose to express it find punishment by any number of social venues. The evidence of individuality is slight because there is a secret fear of social punishment. However, we are all subtly punishing ourselves more so, by not embracing self-expressiveness.
Too many times I have heard Dartmouth men espouse the annoyance of Dartmouth women: they are militant feminists, uptight bitches or just plain ugly. Women just as consistently announce that the men are thoughtless hormones lacking manners and common sense.
However, the rifts go further than just the sexes. This antipathy displays nothing but frustration, miscommunication, and most importantly a lack of respect. If men and women don't respect each other it makes healthy relationships difficult, if not altogether impossible. The options then, are abstinence from it all, or hooking up, a process requiring and encouraging no degree of respect.
The sharp divisions between cliques unfortunately resulted as a function of our needs. We align ourselves against the slanders thrown upon us by others not sharing those bonding commonalties. The empowerment we feel through the belittlement of others is a sad commentary on our intelligence. Imposing values, developing unmitigated judgments and unquestioningly accepting rumors are just a few bad habits many students exhibit which most importantly hinder their own social and self-development.
Besides the harms done to others, think of yourself. Don't wait until senior year job interviews to prove your individuality and express yourself and your unique qualities. Everyone has them, otherwise we wouldn't be at Dartmouth. Why all the fear and inhibition? Be strong and don't wait for the alcohol to kick in before you release those inhibitions to define yourself and your interests. (Beer goggles really don't work or last.) There is nothing wrong with Greek houses, sports teams, clubs or minority groups, as long as you define yourself without dependence upon that institution. Be a whole person without a crutch; maintain your identity without a label.
In a land of freedom why do we bind ourselves to a strict set of behaviors? Freud says, in growing up, our greatest fear is losing the unconditional love of our parents. In such an intimate college as Dartmouth, the fear transfers to the loss of respect from our peers. But how selfish that we wish to hoard respect from others but resist bestowing it upon them. Despite the tainted norms of the Dartmouth social scene, one does not gain respect through his ability to conform, but rather from his ability to differ; just ask any interviewer.
In the real world, being "cool" doesn't bring success; being your own person does. What does "cool" mean in your group, anyway? Must one blow off non-conformists, dress like people who accept them, act indifferent to people who don't and behave in accordance with their ideological hierarchy? That is sheepish. Lame. Weak.
You are asking to be classified and attacked for that very reason if you accept these notions of "cool". It is a disappointing statement about such highly esteemed, talented, and allegedly intelligent individuals.
Join a sport's team, be in a Greek house, participate in clubs, but most importantly retain and contribute your specialties or differences to it. You need not shape your habits based on others' biases. Disrobe this secret dichotomy. By better understanding ourselves, the more powerful we become as a team. Who are you? Most of these worthy individuals around you have no idea who you really are.
Define yourself, your desires, and your strengths. It is okay to be a woman, a minority, a Greek member and/or a mainstream caucasian male. You know that. Why don't others? Don't suppress your individuality. By binding yourself to a group of others you subject yourself to the criticism of each and every other member aligned likewise, with no separate identity of your own, unless you make yourself known. You don't have to be the president/captain of "whatever, the infamous such-n-such," or the esteemed Loud Mouth. Just do as you do when not driven by Dartmouth's social forces -- do as you do when you are home and comfortable.
Speak out what you really feel, pursue your genuine interests, dress up as yourself and reject what you do not believe. Allow others these same privliges. Perhaps we will begin to respect each other and strengthen ourselves, not to mention the Dartmouth Team.
In an era of fleeting Dartmouth traditions, grasp a hold on this one firmly before it, too, flies out the window. Let's hear your vox clamantis in deserto.
