Valuing the Party Animal

People are often categorized or labeled, whether it is by race or the world of teenage stereotypes.  In most settings, an outgoing character is desired and thought to be superior to the introvert. As a society, we push for kids to be social, promoting interaction over isolation.

As a kid, I always preferred books for company and was constantly told that I should interact with other kids instead. Susan Cain talks of this similar problem in her TED talk, advocating for the introverts of the world.

Susan Cain: The Power of Introverts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0KYU2j0TM4

From the point of being a child in a classroom in elementary school, we are told that group collaboration and desks gathered in pods are the best ways to spawn creativity and productivity. But, the habits of introverts are disregarded. We are told that working individually or choosing to be alone is abnormal.

Party animals get all the attention (photo by vobios on flickr.com)

Introversion is not a state of shyness or being afraid of social interaction. Introverts simply react better to lower levels of stimulation. Unlike extroverts, who need larger amounts of stimulation, thus enjoy being in large groups of people. This choice of environment is often misinterpreted as anti social, but in reality introverts are simply happier in more low-key settings.

This mentality exists in the college environment as well. People overlook you if you choose to stay in rather than take part in the party culture. But the fact of the matter is how outgoing someone is does not determine how interesting or exciting they are as people.

We tend to be fascinated and obsessed with the party girl mold or the frat boy stereotype, while in reality, that personality type has no real correlation with character. I caught myself many times questioning my choice to stay in and watch movies or just go out to coffee as a friend. Those that prefer quieter, more intimate settings should be just as valued as those who enjoy the raging party or crowded bar scene.

College, like anywhere else, provides choices, and whether you choose an environment full of stimulation or one with less, it all simply comes down to personal preference.