Every frustratingly accurate Georgetown stereotype debunked

When you hear the words “Georgetown University,” you likely envision hordes of nerds who spend all their free time perfecting their speech writing skills for when they run for Congress one day.

Although a student claiming to soon be a Presidential candidate did legitimately beg me for my support at my very first party on the hilltop, not all Hoyas are White House bound.

What follows is a feeble attempt to debunk the most common Georgetown stereotypes –– though they’re probably here to stay.

The students are all preppy and dress nicely

While it’s quite common for MSB students to be decked out in suits and blazers on their way to networking events, and there is certainly no shortage of salmon-colored shorts and Vineyard Vines apparel on campus, I for one will often be seen shamelessly parading my Georgetown sweats.

Disclaimer: if you’re wearing athletic apparel, you may very well be asked if you’re on your way to work out. Try not to let the haters get to you. Take a deep breath, readjust your sweats, and continue on your way to Leo’s. Unless you actually are on your way to Yates, of course, in which case, power to you.

Everyone is a government major

Just most of us. Out of everyone I knew on my floor last year, I was the only one interested in government. The government department is definitely strong, but so is the pre-med track, OPIM, the IPEC major, and tons of other ones with acronyms I’m still unfamiliar with.

The party scene is minimal

I can’t even begin to express how many times people from home have asked me if Georgetown has Greek life, which is inevitably followed by “Oh, so like, where do you go out?” The fact that the university does not officially recognize Greek life definitely makes the social scene unique, but even though it’s low-key, it does exist. Most clubs also serve as social outlets and will host parties or events, so there are plenty of opportunities to let loose.

Some of my friends and I like to pretend that we are our own sorority.

Georgetown students are super competitive academically

It’s no secret that academics at Georgetown are notoriously rigorous. Depending on what school you’re in and what classes you’re taking, there might be certain limits as to the number of students that can get an “A” in the class –- an inherently competitive system.

That being said, there’s a palpable distinction between “competitive” and “cut-throat.” While students may be competitive at times, the environment is nowhere near aggressive (which seems to be the case at some other elite schools). I’d argue that many students’ competitive natures largely result from their own drive and aspirations, rather than the desire to outperform their classmates.

The typical Georgetown student is involved in everything

There is definitely some truth to this one. During my first week on the Hilltop, I was struck by how passionate everyone is, which is channelled into as many clubs and activities as their schedules allow.

Hearing about how fellow classmates intern on Capitol Hill, work a shift at Hilltoss, perform a random act of kindness for GIVES, and somehow manage to squeeze in a workout for their upcoming triathlon all in one day is enough to raise your blood pressure.

However, obviously not everyone holds a leadership position in twelve different clubs (if you do, please teach me your ways). The bottom line is that the majority of Hoyas are not only academically driven, but also invest their time and effort into at least one or two clubs that pique their interest.

See? We are more than just stressed, well-dressed political nerds.