James Buchanan's college years were marked by a vibrant and lively spirit, comparable to George W. Bush's time at Yale. This reputation for spirited behavior highlights a side of Buchanan that contrasts with his later presidential persona, suggesting a more dynamic youth filled with energy and mischief.

In Mark Will-Weber's "Mint Juleps with Teddy Roosevelt," the author draws parallels between Buchanan’s collegiate antics and those of Bush, indicating that both figures shared a spirited, rambunctious nature during their formative years. This comparison adds depth to our understanding of these presidents, showing that their characters were shaped in part by their experiences in higher education.