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If you were thinking of top party schools in the nation, it might cross your mind that Clemson would be close to the top.
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The school just seems fun, right? All that orange.
Clemson is on the new list of party schools from Niche, but it’s not at the top. It’s not even in the top 10. It’s No. 36 and the University of South Carolina scored higher.
One point.
USC is No. 35. The other USC, University of Southern California, is in the top 10, coming in at No. 5.
Niche, a website that compares K-12 schools, colleges, and graduate programs, gave the biggest weight to assessments by students at each school — 70% — calling it the most “reliable signal.”
“Students know whether their campus has an active party culture better than any proxy can capture,” the website said.
Other measures were proximity to bars (10%), athletics (7.5%), Greek life (7.5%), proximity to full-service restaurants (5%).
On athletics Niche said, “Strong athletics programs generate game-day culture, alumni engagement, and recurring social events that extend well beyond the sport itself.”
Both South Carolina schools certainly have that.
Some 555,340 people attended USC football home games last year — averaging 79,334 fans per home game, ranking among the top crowds in college football, USC said.
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Clemson football reported slightly less — 553,996 for the season, 79,142 per game.
Niche scored USC an A+ for party scene and athletics with an A overall. Included in the athletics score was revenue, basketball championships and coach’s pay.
That had to boost USC’s score with the three championships won during Dawn Staley’s tenure.
Among the responses from students was this: “My experience has been a mix of excitement and growth. The campus is stunning, especially the historic Horseshoe, and the blend of historic and modern facilities creates an inspiring atmosphere. Professors are approachable, and the university offers excellent resources like tutoring and career services. Gamecock pride is contagious, and football games are an unforgettable highlight of student life.”
Clemson, too, earned at A+ for party school and athletics and A overall.
Clemson has won national championships in football and soccer.
An AI generated summary of student responses called Clemson vibrant with a strong sense of community, robust academics and supportive professors.
Students at both schools said parking was the pits.
In the top 100 on the list was Coastal Carolina at 77 (A+ party school, B- overall) and South Carolina State at 97 (A party scene, C overall).
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Top 10 party schools
1. Florida State University
2. Tulane University
3. University of Wisconsin, Madison
4. University of Dayton
5. University of Southern California
6. Penn State
7. The Ohio State University
8. University of Georgia
9. West Virginia University
10. University of Illinois