There are plenty of smart and serious students at Tulane. My D and all of her friends included. Her best friend is a Stamps recipient. All are involved and very busy. But what Tulane is not is a grind. It’s a fun, upbeat, never boring place to get an education. D and her friends are not Greek and do not have to rely upon Greek organizations for entertainment. They explore the city looking for food, art and music in its many vibrant neighborhoods. And…the misguided stereotype that New Orleans is “all about debauchery”. Tulane is not on Bourbon Street. Tulane is not even in the French Quarter. It’s 20 mins away Uptown, surrounded by multi-million dollar homes. And those people so interested in debauchery on Bourbon Street? Those are tourists that don’t realize how much history and unique culture they are missing by spending all of their time there.
Tulane is a place where finding balance is easier than most. Post pandemic, I believe that prioritizing schools that offer the opportunity to find such balance is a way to prioritize students’ mental health and wellness. Given the stressors of the last several years while D has been in school, I am forever grateful that she was in a place where having fun is embraced. It helped her make it through to the other side where she is now thriving and happy.