*article written by Camila Vardar*
Parties are a super fun way to destress and end your week on a high note. Yale is not notorious for its party scene, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fun events going on every weekend (or day, if you’re into that). Whether you’re a prolific party-goer or you only emerge out of your dorm/cave/library once a semester, there’s a space for every Yalie who wants to have a fun night! Here’s how some ACTUAL Yale students like to get their party on:
STUDENT 1
How often do you go out?
3+ times a week
Where do you usually go?
During weekends, a capella houses, AEPi and other students’ suites. On Wednesdays, Woads (with resective pregames).
Any party tips for the prefrosh?
Make sure that your life is actually together before you go out. You’re at Yale for the academics, not the partying!
Is there anything about Yale’s party scene that you feel could improve?
Better communication. Sometimes, I don’t know if anything is going on.
STUDENT 2
How often do you go out?
A few times a semester
Where do you usually go? What are some things you like/dislike about these venues?
Woads. It’s fun and there’s space to dance with your friends. Also South Asian and Bollywood dance parties.
Any party tips for the prefrosh?
There’s a wide range of parties! Don’t feel limited to the frats. Explore different venues like Toads, cultural show after-parties, and more!
Is there anything about Yale’s party scene that you feel could improve?
There could be better, less formal residential college-sponsored parties.
STUDENT 3
How often do you go out?
A few times a month.
Where do you usually go? What are some things you like/ dislike about these venues?
Frats, Toads, suites. I hate the heat. They could have better sound systems too.
Any party tips for the prefrosh?
The hyped party never ends up being the best one.
Is there anything about Yale’s party scene that you feel could improve?
There should be more parties with drinks on site so that people don’t have to get wasted first and party second, but instead just drink moderately while they party.
STUDENT 4
How often do you go out?
A few times a semester.
Where do you usually go? What are some things you like/ dislike about these venues?
I tend to stick to Cultural Center parties, international students’ parties, and recently, I started going to frats. The cultural center parties (shoutout to La Casa for having the best music) are pretty chill and a great option for non-drinkers. As a short person, I’m not a fan of getting pushed around and elbowed in the face at frats.
Any party tips for the prefrosh?
Invest in a “fracket” and “frat shoes” as soon as you can. I went to my first frat party wearing sandals and a cute cardigan, and needless to say, they were both obliterated by the end of the night. Also, don’t be afraid to be social! If you see a cutie from your section at a party or someone you really want to talk to, go ahead and introduce yourself. Yalies are generally nice people. Lastly, Facebook is a great way of knowing what events are going on!
Is there anything about Yale’s party scene that you feel could improve?
Yale needs more themed parties! I’m a huge fan of dressing up, but I’d totally be down for a sweatpants & sweatshirts party, if there was an event of that sort.
STUDENT 5
How often do you go out?
A few times a month.
Where do you usually go? What are some things you like/ dislike about these venues?
I prefer either suite parties or frats. Frats are honestly disgusting sinholes, particularly since I’m a lesbian, but if you go with a group of likeminded friends post-pregame to dance yourselves silly and laugh at the grossness, they can be fun! Suite parties are my favorite, though. They’re relatively safe, so you can unwind and enjoy yourself, and they don’t have the disgusting basement atmosphere of an actual basement. I would also recommend parties thrown by the women’s rugby team.
Any party tips for the prefrosh?
Go with people you trust! Drink water! If you’re going somewhere you don’t know very well, bring your own alcohol! Never drink anything you didn’t pour yourself or watch someone pour for you! When in doubt, call health services. Your wellbeing is THE priority!
Is there anything about Yale’s party scene that you feel could improve?
Fewer frats and more fun!