How can I tell whether a university feels too quiet or too socially active for me?
Imagine what you want your time outside class to feel like, then assess the university at different times—such as lunch, after classes, and before exams—through visits or information sessions. Check the availability of clubs, events, student interaction, and quiet study spaces, and ask current students. A quiet university may still offer optional ways to meet people, while an active one may not require you to join everything.
Key points
- First identify how much interaction and time alone you prefer.
- During a visit, observe students and study spaces at more than one time of day.
- Check both social options—clubs, events, and student interaction—and quiet places to study.
- Use official information as well as conversations with current students or university advisers.
Things to check
- The atmosphere can differ by university, faculty or department, campus, academic year, and time of year, so check the specific institution’s official information for details.