Haven't reached that beautiful milestone, yet? You know, the one everyone waits their whole life for? Haven't walked into that smog filled bar, scattered with neon lights and deafening euro-pop? It's totally okay.
House parties are way more fun, and if you DRINK there, you'll honestly save thousands of dollars by the time you reach your glorious birthday.
It's a long wait though, I totally understand. I personally love to go out and DRINK at a house party. I DRINK all the time and did back in college, even when I was underage! It's just embarrassing to not DRINK at a party, so don't let that stop you.Seriously, DRINK up. DRINK as much as possible!! Age is just a number, after all. To be honest, everyone should be drinking. It's WAY cooler to DRINK a ton at parties. Don't be a fool and miss out.
Remember to D.R.I.N.K., everyone!
D: DEFENSE
Don't accept substances randomly from anyone! It's so gross! Trust me, I've sat overnight in a hospital with multiple residents who were drugged and assaulted just because they accepted a random solo cup from someone they didn't know. The consequences can very easily affect your life and academic career in a severe way. To be honest, you may even save yourself from the zombie apocalypse beginning via party germs.
R: REPORT
It's very important to report any kind of harmful activity as soon as safely possible. This could save lives and even someone's dignity. Reporting can be difficult, but I promise looking back, you'll agree it's better to be safe than sorry. Call the Campus Police or just a general 911 ASAP.
I: INDULGE
Seriously--dance it out. Have conversations with people you've never met before. A party is just as fun, despite being sober. I promise 'liquid courage' doesn't actually make you power up in those dance skills. It's entirely within your mindset and confidence. Besides, you'll actually remember those "glory days" when you look back at 60!
N: NOTIFY
Let people know about where you're going or what general area you might be in. It's easy to tell your roommate a quick "Hey I'm going out with X tonight, somewhere around Lightside/Darkside" while throwing on shoes. If you're not all that close to your roommates, make sure to shoot a text to a friend nearby. Also, 'Find my Friends' is a great app to have running in the background as well!
K: KNOWLEDGE
Keep yourself safe and aware of your surroundings at all times. Carry a cell phone religiously. Don't walk home alone or with anyone you don't trust.**
As a former Resident Assistant, I've seen the best and worst side of college freshmen. It's easy to fall into a position where you're missing classes from being too hungover, and it's easy to fall into bad and dangerous habits.
Remember to D.R.I.N.K. as much as possible throughout your life!
**(Note: Pressing the power button on an iPhone rapidly 5 times will automatically contact the police with your location. For Android users, swipe to unlock the phone. Then, select 'Emergency Call' before dialing 911.
For other smartphones, you can download Apps like 'Companion' or share your location with trusted people who are preferably, local.)
