I must be going to a slightly different college to the one Max went to.
I would agree though that the most "tough and ruthless" aspects have not that much to do with the actual work. And that "surviving" has a fair bit to do with ones approach/ attitude and personallity.
Being an above average social member of the college, I wouldn't place as much emphasis on team bonding to help pass the course, I'd put it in the help maintain sanity category.