<p>People are right. Columbia is not for everyone and nor should it be expected to be. However, you also have to realize that no school is perfect for each and every student attending that school. I am sure there are students/alumni at other schools that feel the same way about their institutions. I remember recently reading about a Dartmouth student who was not happy with her experience and refused to donate $$$ towards the school and jeopardized the school from receiving a matching gift. I am also friends with a couple of Dartmouth alumni, who also had less than stellar experiences there. Does it mean that everyone feels that way? Of course not. I also know some Dartmouth alumni who loved college. My brother graduated from another ivy and he expressed the same sentiments of not having too great of a time and hasn’t been back to his alma mater in twenty years and has no intention of ever returning. Just as I had a wonderful experience at Columbia (and probably would not have enjoyed as much attending a school in the boondocks), I am aware of classmates who didn’t have as great a time. </p>
<p>I think Columbia offers a unique experience in that being in NYC, it is more challenging to create a greater sense of community just given the dynamics. It also doesn’t help that our football and basketball teams make it harder to rally around a successful sports team. There are opportunities to meet people and make friends all the time. </p>
<p>I do agree with Slipper1234 about the lack of attendance at reunions. I have been to two and the attendance was disappointing for my particular class year, although my class seems to be very apathetic unfortunately. I am happy to see just one entry in classnotes. ;-)</p>