Don't feel pressured to drink in college

A lot of movies and news media attention given to college life focuses on alcohol use and abuse, including binge drinking and high-risk drunken antics. For a lot of first generation college students, this creates an expectation that college should involve drinking.

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But it doesn't have to. College students tend to overestimate how much their peers are drinking and feel pressured to keep up with that mistaken assumption. Don't feel pressured to drink in college or give into a negative peer environment. Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to drinking in college:

Not everyone is doing it. Don’t overestimate how much other students are drinking. Many college students drink two drinks or less when they party.

Know what’s at stake. You have rights and responsibilities when it comes to your conduct. Alcohol-related offenses can result in disciplinary action such as being kicked out of student housing or even being kicked out of college, so always understand the consequences of your behavior. And this may include both on- and off-campus behavior because it is common practice for city police to share student violations with campus authorities.

Avoid a party foul. If you decide to have a party, know that hosts are held accountable for their guests' conduct and safety. Make sure you responsibly control any service and drinking of alcohol, and don't let anyone drive drunk. Also, respect your neighbors’ rights and quality of life by informing them about your plans and keeping the ruckus down.

Be true to yourself. If you feel that you have to drink to have fun, that is a problem that you should get help to deal with. If you feel uncomfortable because friends are pressuring you to drink, that is also worth talking to someone about. Drinking should always be your personal choice made free of pressure, either from yourself or others.

Step up and educate yourself. If you find yourself in a situation where others are drinking irresponsibly, take personal responsibility for helping with a possible emergency. This means knowing your campus and community resources and using them when needed.  Life and safety issues take top priority over the fear of getting in trouble.

Always drink responsibly, if you choose to drink. Remember, if you are going to party, party safely.

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.