The paper is a case study of an elite institution, Dartmouth College, and its unique traditions, rituals and symbols that are shared by students, faculty and administrators. Lee taught at Dartmouth two years, during which time he was a participant observer of its culture. As consumers seeking the best product they can afford, they are selective about a school's public image, sense of community and history. Students at Dartmouth and other elite colleges spend four years interacting together and enjoying memorable social experiences both in and out of the classroom. After graduation, members of elite college communities continue to think of themselves as a special kind of group.
Alumni keep in touch with one another and take mutual assistance for granted.
College culture in the form of annual celebrations, architecture, rituals, symbols and behavioral norms offers a dramatic background, interesting script and colorful props, Lee notes. Not surprisingly, it succeeds in keeping students involved with life on campus after their graduation ceremonies are long over. Administrators understand this and are willing to invest money to promote the exclusive family image. When a college spends money on a special ceremony, monument, meeting place or festival, the cost is eventually passed on to its students. Students at these schools are willing to accept this cost because the social dividends will be enormous in later years.