bluedog

I mean, it's no different than the real world. Obviously, if in a group of four friends, three of them have a lot more money than the fourth person and they choose to go out to a fancy dinner or what have you, the fourth person might be left out. This happens before and after college and is just a part of life. If one person has a lot less money, it obviously affects spending habits for entertainment, dining, etc. So, I won't say that it doesn't. However, it's typically not a big deal and most people I know don't spend exorbitant amounts on entertainment (Durham just isn't that expensive; it's not NYC). So, "poorer" people shouldn't really be left out of much that I can think of. Duke students are also aware enough that if there friend can't afford something, they'll change plans accordingly....It's really not a big deal, but of course money dictates certain habits.

mafool

^^Right. And even some of our son's more well-heeled friends are quite aware of expenses and aren't comfortable with conspicuous self indulgence. (Enlightened parenting, I'd guess!, or maybe just the result of intelligence?)

Nineteen

Echoing bluedog, I agree that entertainment at Duke is really not that expensive. Most things are on campus and are either very cheap or free. It's not like Duke is Columbia or NYU (and in fact, that's why I didn't apply to those schools, because I knew I couldn't afford the social life in New York).

And I also don't think Duke is that bad with financial aid. My parents make a little over 100k and WashU gave me $800, haha. Obviously not going to happen. Duke was much better, although still very expensive, as was expected.