College isn’t just an academic opportunity but a social one. Meeting people from so many different walks of life and engaging in student groups and activities can make college feel less like school. 

However, NIU’s social scene has a reputation for being very Greek Life oriented. Personally, I’ve even heard people go as far to say that NIU is boring. 

But NIU, and the greater DeKalb area, has so much more life in it than people realize – you just have to look for it. 

Of course, I’m not disputing that Greek Life is a big part of NIU’s student culture, just like any other college; however, student organizations don’t stop there. 

There are over 242 student organizations listed on Huskie Hub: including – but not limited to – both competitive and recreational sports, multi-cultural organizations, performing arts clubs and bands. Each of these clubs and groups offer unique events and opportunities to connect with people like you and make memories. 

Additionally, while the party scene is very much alive at NIU, DeKalb doesn’t only offer fun activities on Thursday nights. Downtown DeKalb has numerous restaurants, such as the Egyptian Theatre, Star Worlds Arcade, plenty of shops and storefronts. 

Early on in the fall semester, downtown DeKalb hosts Corn Fest: a local festival with food and activities galore. Moreover, for more alternative culture in the DeKalb area, the Fargo Venue and Fargo Skatepark provide safe spaces for every sub-genre, and an indoor skatepark so you can shred year-round. 

DeKalb isn’t only defined by fraternities and night life. There’s music, food and fun everywhere. Getting out of the dorm or stopping to take a walk in downtown DeKalb could lead to a new, exciting discovery.