I would suggest that you read through some of the past threads on this topic for a more balanced view. I think the past consensus is that you can drink or not drink. You can party and drink or not drink. The Greek community at Dartmouth is known for its openness. I.e., you do not have to join a house to go to parties (except for some closed events, of course). And there are plenty of students who do not party. You do realize that Animal House is fiction and was never at Dartmouth? You are correct that it is a beautiful campus, and you should not overlook its reputation for undergraduate education and the close relationships that students develop with professors. Good luck in your search.