Hi,
I'm a third year student at Glasgow and most of my social life doesn't revolve around drinking. I obviously can't speak for the entire Uni but, in my experience, Glasgow is a very cultural city and has a great music and arts scene. Last semester, I managed to get cheap tickets for the ballet, theatre, and opera. Most people also go to the cinema or out for dinner if they are fancying a night out that doesn't involve a lot of drinking. Obviously, there is some drinking but I've never felt pressured to drink and sometimes people will just have a soft drink at the pub if they are not feeling like drinking. Glasgow also has a huge number of societies that you can get involved in and they are a great way to meet people and have some fun when you are not stuck in the library. For example, I'm currently heavily involved with a society that is linked to a local refugee integration program which has been really rewarding. I was also a Freshers' Helper this year and I can honestly say that the Uni is aware that not everyone wants to drink heavily on Freshers'. Therefore, they make a huge effort to hold events which are alcohol free and allow you to meet people so you are not forced to go out clubbing and drink heavily to socialise.
Glasgow is a beautiful city with a vibrant arts scene and lots of great museums and parks to hang out in. You could spend 4 years in the pub but this would mean missing out on the unique opportunities and experiences studying at Glasgow affords you. If you have any more questions or want to know more, feel free to shoot me a message.
Lauren Galloway( Ask a student e-mentor)