Can I Please Go Back and Live It All Over Again?
IntroductionI learned SO MUCH while I was at Lehigh in the late 1990's- of course academically, but also about myself. Lehigh provides so many opportunities for you to develop as a person. If you are interested in doing something- ANYTHING you can imagine- then you can do it at Lehigh. Not only can you do it, but the school will support you in your efforts 110%.
I was a really active student leader- the administration and staff really encouraged me to grow as a person. I knew that I could stop by their offices to talk with them at any time- and I know that as an alum, I can still do that. Lehigh really is a family. Once you're in, you're in it for life!
In my post-grad career, I've found that my fellow Lehigh alum- even if I didn't know them when I was at Lehigh- are always willing to lend a hand or provide a connection. The family definitely continues on for the rest of your life. Lehigh is really working to build up its young alumni base- organizing young alumni events in the "Lehigh Clubs" around the country. So if you move someplace new, you can always find a built-in network of fellow Lehigh alum. Also, people know Lehigh all over the country and are always impressed when they see Lehigh on your resume.
Campus Life and Social LifeThe Greek System is a close-knit (but not closed) community. I really enjoyed the house pride, the community, the opportunity to meet different and new people, and the leadership opportunities. But it wasn't the only part of my social life- I have close friends that I made in the freshman dorms, classes, and clubs. Also, you'll make a lot of close friends in your major. You'll have a lot of classes together, will form study groups, and will work together on a lot of group projects. Lots of chances to get to know your fellow students!
I almost always stayed in on week nights, and even stayed in some weekend nights and no one gave me a hard time about it ... but if you aren't naturally a people-person then just be willing to expand your boundaries! Overall, Lehigh students are very friendly, outgoing, and social!
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AcademicsA great benefit to going to such a friendly and social school is that students are really willing to help each other. Students are really serious about their work and have high expectations for themselves, but are not competitive with their fellow students. Some of my best memories are from study groups. The library lobby area is one of the hottest social places on campus during the week and on Sunday nights. So for those of you who think that Lehigh is just a "party school"- so not true!
My professors always knew their student's names, and were very approachable for help with classes as well as personal stuff like grad school decisions. I went into office hours for one class in particular just about every single day. I am still in touch with a few of my professors and know that they are always there for me if I need advice or help.
Student BodyDefinitely all REALLY smart people but also really well rounded- social, fun, helpful, and friendly ... if you didn't go into Lehigh this way, there's a good chance that you'll come out this way. It's hard not to when you are surrounded by so many great people and have so many opportunities to push your boundaries and learn!
In Closing...It was an incredible 4 years. I wish I could do it all over again!!