Bryn Mawr College Top Questions

One stereotype about Bryn Mawr that I heard back in high school was: "By and large, Bryn Mawr girls are Bi and Large." Under this stereotype, we (Bryn Mawr girls) are all lesbians who care too much about studying and too little about partying and exercise. As a rising sophomore, I can definitely say that none of this is true. Out of all women's colleges, we are one of the "straightest," and there are boys around our campus (from Haverford and Swarthmore) taking classes all year long. Furthermore, our campus administration really stresses personal health and life balance. Every freshman is required to take a 6-week "Wellness" course which teaches us about life skills such as stress management and nutrition. Our fitness center also holds monthly programs where students who exercise have the chance to win t-shirts, water bottles, and other prizes. After a full year at Bryn Mawr, I can definitely say that by and large, Bryn Mawr girls and, well, normal, hard working, intelligent, and independent college girls.

At Bryn Mawr, the quirky kid will fit it. That's not to say that other types of students will not find their niche.

Often times I hear people mention that Bryn Mawr students like to be involved in EVERYTHING. Sometimes too much, where they spread themselves to thin. I think the stereotype is accurate because when you ask a Bryn Mawr women how does she spend her time at school, you might hear a list of things. For instance someone might say, "I am a Customs person, a member of ASA, I work for admissions, I volunteer for a tax assistance program, and I sing. I am also a member of the pre-health club and the secretary for the OWL investment group." This is not to mention the fact that they are full-time students, with lots of work. I think Bryn Mawr students are really good at multi-tasking and becoming involved.

Lesbians that only work and never do more than strict academics

The stereotyped Bryn Mawr student is intelligent to the point of socially crippling herself. She is not interested in parties, can't communicate well with men, and is too intense when it comes to media she likes or politics she supports. Although Mawrters are definitely "intense," I've found that most of these stereotypes are spread by women at other schools who feel intimidated or threatened by the all-female environment. For the most part, I've known Mawrters to be somewhat socially awkward, very passionate, creative and driven. When a Mawrter says she'll get something done...it gets done.