It’s Alcohol Awareness Week here at Hofstra. The ladies of Her Campus thought it would be the perfect time to talk about a topic that touches all of our lives in some form.
As smart, responsible young women it’s important to be aware of the do’s and don’ts of college drinking. Too often, people associate college with binge drinking and unhealthy habits. However, there’s so much more to college than that and when it comes to the subject of drinking, why be so taboo?
It’s important to be informed so you can make the best decisions for yourself regardless of peer pressure and circumstances. So before you hit up Dizzy’s, Nacho’s, McHebe’s or Bar Social, here are the do’s and don’ts of college drinking. The bottom line is you’re in control; treat your mind and body with the respect it deserves.
RA Disclaimer Before I begin, I should note the first rule: Don’t drink if you’re underage. Ultimately, underage drinking causes many more issues than it’s worth. Wait until you’re legal to try that martini, you’ll appreciate it much more when you’re obeying the law!
Do’s
1) Set limits. One of the easiest ways to steer off course when drinking is to go beyond what your body can handle. The way to combat this is to make a plan before you begin your night. Be true to yourself and stick to your limits, you’ll be glad you did.
2) Have a buddy. Staying within your limits is easier when you’re doing it with a friend. Make sure you have a close friend near at all times, for safety and social reasons. You’ll be able to keep an eye on each other throughout the night, plus you’ll always have someone to talk to!
3) Eat before drinking. Your body can’t process alcohol on an empty stomach. Plus, if you’re full going into the night maybe you won’t eat that slice of Campus Pizza you’re probably going to regret in the morning!
4) Stay sober! Just because everyone else at the party is drinking doesn’t mean you have to too! There’s nothing wrong with staying sober, it actually can be more fun! Not to mention that amount of money you’ll save by not buying alcohol. Use your cash to get some new items for fall, now that’s a good time!
5) Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Remember, you’re in charge. Don’t let anyone change that.
Don’ts
1) Don’t use alcohol as an escape from your current situation. If you’re feeling lonely, mad, or depressed remember that alcohol is never the answer. Find alternatives to help alleviate your mood and be aware that using alcohol in this negative way will inevitably lead to bigger problems in the future.
2) Don’t ever drink in an environment or with people you aren’t comfortable with. This is never a good idea and usually doesn’t lead to good stories. Only drink when you feel safe in the environment and with people you trust.
3) Don’t mix drinks. Ever heard of ‘Liquor before beer, you’re in the clear. Beer before liquor, never been sicker’? Mixing different types of alcohol is a sure way to make yourself sick. You don’t want to be the person in the bathroom all night not feeling well, so remember this tip at all times!
4) Don’t leave your drink unattended. We’ve all heard this a million times, right? While it might have gotten old after the 100th time, you should always live by this rule when you’re drinking. Even when you are sure nothing will go wrong, keep your drink with you, it’s not worth the risk.
5) Don’t set rules or parent the people you’re with. Of course it’s important to be there for your friends but never try to tell anyone else what to do. At the end of the day, people are going to make their decisions and what’s important is that you listen to your gut and make the choices that are best for you. Don’t become the babysitter.
Bottom line before you bottoms up at a party or bar; always be smart and safe when it comes to alcohol.