Most people come into college having stolen a sip of their parents' drinks or going to the one high school party where they had a Smirnoff Ice, maybe two if they were feeling risky. They never experienced what three beers, four shots, and a half bottle of wine will do to you.

At 20 years old, I was living the high life. Everything was fun, and I could drink anyone under the table. I was the typical teen who loved a nice Corona and lime (even if my dad told me never to put fruit in my beer). At all the parties, if shots were offered, boy, you better believe shots were taken. I'm German; drinking is in my blood. I drink safely, watch my cup, and lucky enough, I've never puked from drinking. I've had one hangover (which is a whole other story), and I've only blacked on parts of the night a few times. That's a pretty good record if I say so myself. But that's not what made it a problem.

My problem was shown to me by one of my closest friends. He didn't tell me in a mean way, just in a way I didn't understand. And I didn't understand what he said until we broke up because of it.

We are taught a lot in college that drinking comes naturally to most. But something I was never shown was how to drink casually and maturely. In my drinking experiences, it was always a race—who could drink the most and who could drink the fastest. I also drank to take away the stress and sadness I would feel. Looking back now, don't they tell you that's the worst thing to do, drink while emotional? Well, I guess not because that's what I did. Mix all three together and I would turn into an emotional roller coaster who was not to be messed with. I would say things I didn't mean and almost turn into a different person. It took away from who I was and made me something I never wanted to be.

So now what?

I've realized where I stand with my drinking and have taken it upon myself to change things. Do I believe I should never drink again? Heck no. I turn 21 really soon and can't imagine not celebrating. But I've realized it's time to take control of me.

College years are some of the best of your life, but there are some things college doesn't teach you. Have a good time and make the memories of a lifetime, but do it smart. Remember, it's not a competition; you can casually sip a beer or take one shot. You'll still have the same amount of fun, but you'll be able to have fun longer. You also don't have to drink the most. Drink what you want and can handle at the end of the night, and next morning, you'll be thanking yourself. In addition, don't drink when you're overly emotional. Alcohol is a depressant and won't help take the pain away, it may actually just make it all worse.

Alcohol makes for some good times, but it can also make for the worst. Educate yourself and know yourself. It may be the best thing you do in your college life.