<p>midatlmom’s post was incredibly comprehensive, so I only have these two things to reiterate:</p>
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<p>Before I got to Princeton, I thought eating clubs were the weirdest things in the world. And they kind of are, but they’re also vastly different from what I thought they would be. Some of them do give off a frat vibe, but that doesn’t describe most of them. It’s just that the easiest way to describe them to people from home is as coed frats, because there’s nothing else they really come close to resembling. But many of the sign-in clubs, and even some of the bicker clubs, don’t have that exclusive and/or rage-y feel. For underclassmen, they serve as a locus of partying and weekend socializing. But for the 80% of upperclassmen in a club, they are much more: a place to hang out during the week and eat meals with friends. </p>
<p>And don’t forget the co-ops and res colleges, which offer options to other students. </p>
<p>Is this social structure divisive? Yes and no. Obviously, it groups students into different environments, and unlike Yale’s diverse res colleges, eating clubs tend to reflect various student interests–hipsters in one club, wrestlers in another, and Woody Woo majors in still another. But that doesn’t mean that you entirely stop socializing with friends in other clubs when you join a different one. I’ll leave it at that because I’m an ignorant freshman and others with more reliable info can jump in.</p>
<p>Also, finaid increases, no questions asked, junior and senior year to help cover the price of eating clubs. Additionally, several clubs offer less expensive “shared” meal plans with the dining halls. And one of the eating clubs just reduced their price to match that of an unlimited dining hall meal plan. </p>
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<p>I also had this impression as a high school student. I think a lot of people do. Rest assured, however, that the humanities and the arts are alive and well at Princeton. There are an almost unbelievable number of student groups in the performing arts, and several student publications for the writers among us. (Not to mention a truly outstanding creative writing department–like, seriously.) I feel like everyone I know sings or does theater. I don’t think, in short, that you’ll want for artistic outlets on Princeton’s campus.</p>
<p>Best of luck with your decision!</p>