<p>Well, personally I think it has something to do with the student bodies. At LAC’s, you’ll find intelligent students who also tend to be pretty laid-back and fun-loving, and want what most consider to be “the college experience” also. This is as opposed to MIT-types who (stereotypically) are geniuses who are completely focused on their math-science work, and get their kicks with things like high-tech pranks. Or maybe ultra-liberal, mellow, Wesleyan types who prefer the pot scene. No judgment- the student bodies just tend to differ that way.</p>
<p>Sure, part of it is location. If you’re in a campus “bubble” situation, you’ll probably have more of a campus community, and also more drinking. It’s not like students at Columbia don’t drink- they just don’t get a bad rep for frat drinking because they do it in various bars throughout the city.</p>
<p>Also note that drinking at LAC’s is a lot better than drinking in some of the places down South or at Big 10 schools, where students go completely overboard. You’ll hear tons about binge drinking at UMiami or Central Kentucky- to the point of students dying. While LAC’s aren’t immune, I’ve noticed less drinking to that extent at these schools.</p>
<p>Again, as always, there are many on campus who do not drink as well and are perfectly content. There are many other activities to keep you occupied.</p>