Okkkk......
That sounds really odd and dumb. Did the Dean *really* say that to the freshmen? Or, did s/he tell the students to be wise with their time management because the art programs require a lot of outside effort?
If a Dean says "I do not recommend joining a Greek organization because they require too much time" without acknowledging that other clubs and activities *also* require the same time committments....then that is very unfair. I would complain to the university president (or Vice President of Student Affairs, etc) if this is the case.
It is not appropriate for a Dean to be encouraging students to *not* have a well-rounded university experience. I know arts programs have like 4 hour labs, but that's no reason for saying things which do not support other university endeavours. At least, at my alma mater (California State University Long Beach), our university president was a very big supporter of student life and development outside of academic endeavours.
PS - I'm a Student Affairs Professional ("university administrator") so I have a bias towards extracurriculars as a means of growth and development for young adults.
.....Kelly
