The average college experience is sprinkled with parties and students often find themselves in sticky situations. My sliver of experience with college parties has taught me a standard for how to handle myself when things take a wrong turn.
For those over the age of 21, here are several drinking-related situations and how to deal with them:
The spins. It’s summer! When school’s out (or down to a couple summer classes), drinking is a common activity used to relax with friends in various locations. No one wants to deal with their friends getting sick and I can’t think of a single person that enjoys getting the spins. Circumnavigate this issue by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. The Georgia heat is ultra-dehydrating and so is alcohol, so make sure you are drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day. In addition to maintaining peak hydration, eating a high-carb meal before you start drinking minimizes things taking a wrong turn later. Food and water helps your body absorb alcohol slower, so eat some spaghetti or a hefty sandwich beforehand and you will be thanking yourself after you’ve made it through the night without feeling sick.
Upstairs neighbors at 3 a.m. Here’s the context: you have work at 8 a.m. and the group upstairs is throwing the loudest party you would never even think of being invited to. There is absolutely no way you are going to sleep and you’re running out of pillows to cover your ears with. First, try talking to or texting your neighbor and ask if they can turn the noise down. When it’s late, especially if it’s during the week, the general population is understanding of your need for silence. Remember, we all live together and that means we all have to try and help each other. If this doesn’t work, try calling the resident assistant on duty. It’s their job to handle these situations, and they’ll know what to do next.
The “way too drunk” person at a party. Most students have seen at least one of them, or been one of them at a party. They are usually too loud, all over the place, or in a rough-looking state on the couch. Rule #1: Don’t let this person drive. I repeat—don’t let this person drive. Hide their keys if you need to! Rule #2: Make sure they are taken care of. Whether it requires getting their friends or you to take them home or locking them in an upstairs bedroom, always make sure you are as concerned about this person’s safety as you would want someone to be about yours.
There are many risks that can come with drinking when you’re at a college party. Try to make sure you’re being safe, in control, and able to help others. Have fun this summer and make sure to drink legally and responsibly. Cheers!