Can historical rivalries influence college decisions?

Hello! I've heard a lot about 'the most played college football rivalries'. This makes me wonder whether these rivalries influence people's decisions about what college to attend? Would being part of these rivalries be interesting or would it add unnecessary stress?

Certainly, historical or sports rivalries between colleges can factor into a student's decision-making process when choosing a college. Sports culture can play a considerable role in the overall atmosphere on campus, and many individuals look forward to participating in these traditions and legacies when they attend college.

In terms of whether it's interesting or stressful, it largely depends on the individual student. A lot of students enjoy being a part of these rivalries. They can create a fun and exciting campus atmosphere especially around the time of big games. Attending games, participating in pep rallies, and bonding with fellow students over a common opponent can be a lot of fun and a key part of the college experience for many students.

However, for those who don't care much for sports or are not interested in these rivalries, it can be seen as simply a part of the backdrop of college life. Unless they actively participate in sports or related activities, these rivalries may not add much stress to their college experience. Even then, it is typically more of a friendly competition rather than a source of serious conflict.

One thing to note is that these rivalries rarely, if ever, translate into animosity or negative interactions between students of different schools outside of the sports context. More often than not, the rivalries are sports-focused and are all in good fun. So choosing to attend a college with a notable sports rivalry won't inherently make your experience more stressful, but whether it makes your college experience more interesting really depends on your own interests and involvement in sports culture. If you love participating in college traditions and being a part of a spirited fan base, such rivalries can certainly make your college experience feel more exciting and memorable.