Before I came to the rolling green hills of New Hampshire, I was like any other incoming freshman -- not of age, anxious and, of course, spectacular in bed. Although the bed thing hasn't changed (at least that's what Maxim has led me to believe), the other two have. Dartmouth has been the greatest journey of my life thus far. Here, you'll find yourself in ways you've never even dreamed of.
Since it's probably the number one thing on your mind as well, I'll start with the big topic: partying as a freshman. Yep, no more wondering whose folks are out of town this coming weekend; the name of the game here is fraternities. Although you probably will find it a little tough cracking through the front door of many during your Fall term, you will quickly become an expert student of 'How to Get into Frats 101' (I'd recommend the side windows).
Parties aside, Greek life is very pervasive on campus and is the center of the social scene. You'll quickly learn the ropes and may or may not decide it's right for you. I'm very active in my House, Zeta Psi, and am currently serving as the president of it this summer. Whatever you decide about your personal involvement in Greek houses, parties are open and are a popular option for the affiliated and unaffiliated alike.
However, I didn't dive head-first into Greek life until the latter part of my freshman year. One of my first experiences at Dartmouth was rowing on the men's light crew team. Even though I only pursue rowing extracurricularly now, that was one hell of a good time. Nothing feels quite as good as tear-assing through a Harvard boat on the Charles, or a Yale one at home (because, as you may already know, Harvard SUCKS, even if Natalie Portman goes there ... mmmm Natalie Portman). I also had a brief camio as a JV soccer player, but, you know, the money and fame ruined my career... As if the enjoyment of the sports themselves wasn't enough, I also met some of my best friends in Dartmouth athletics.
I also get major kicks out of the improv troupe I'm in called the Dog Day Players. This pursuit is one of the few survivors of my high-school/college transition. It's almost as much fun as watching someone fall down a flight of stairs, or laughing at the elderly (you know you do it too). I have always marveled at the dedication and talent that fill every member of the group. Luckily, you'll find that this characteristic is not peculiar to any one organization, but is present in all. The best possible thing you can do here is to get involved. Clich, perhaps, but two years seems like nothing with the D-plan. You may not see best friends for over a year with it, so make the most of freshman year when you know they'll be there with you.
Athletics and performance groups provide a valuable niche for many on campus, but there are also abundant student publications that range from poetry to sketch writing. I have written for the humor magazine, the Jack-o-Lantern since my freshman fall, and have found it to be one of my favorite activities. I'm currently a head writer for the summer, but will probably return to obscurity once the ambitious 01's return in the fall. Again, GET OUT OF YOUR DORM AND INTO THE SCENE HERE. Try new things and you'll rarely regret it. Yeah, studying is important, but have fun while you can.
Ah, last minute advice I wish I had had while a freshman: it always snows after spring break, don't pack up your warm stuff too early. Film passes are one of the best values anywhere on earth. Panda House lunch specials -- take advantage. Find the rope swing early (School Street, south of the bridge). For the love of God, research internships early! Deciding a major is really NOT important. Rush the field, touch the fire, sled the hill, party hard. Oh yeah, and read a little in between there somewhere.
This place is the best, enjoy it thoroughly. After all, if Harvard had accepted you, you'd probably be at some hideous Radcliffe mixer right now ugh. So good luck 'Shmen, and I'll see you on the Green!
