SchoolisHard

If you are one of the idiots who almost dies every weekend from drinking so much (and enjoys doing so), this article is not for you. Maybe God will find it in her heart to help you. If you only have occasional lapses in judgment, read on.

Smart students don’t drink like everybody else. In fact, some of them don’t drink at all. I am not a member of the temperance movement, but moderation in all things is a must. You’ll save money and you’ll do better in school. Even better, you won’t feel like shit when you’re sober.

So, exactly how much are you spending every week? If you do most of your drinking at bars or clubs you could be paying almost a hundred bucks a week. This is especially expensive if you are getting drunk too often. Large amounts of alcohol should be a part of special occasions with friends and family. Drinking excessively too often will just make it boring.

To drink like a smart student, keep the following in mind:

• Find the cheapest alcohol there is. If you like the taste of a particular genre of alcohol, find the cheapest available. Nurse your glass so that it lasts longer.
• Prefer opportunities for free alcohol. Appreciate the generosity, just don’t approach these like buffets.
• Have goals. If you are just wanting to get buzzed or mildly drunk, liquor is quicker and more cost-effective. Should enjoying the taste of something be more to your liking, be smart. You know whether or not you can afford something expensive.
• Buy in bulk with friends. Buying your own six packs is a complete ripoff. Join forces with other smart students.
• Gauge your tolerance level appropriately. Downing 4 random shots of some random liquid is idiotic. Until you are completely aware of your body’s ability to handle alcohol, keep it steady and reasonable.
• Watch your cup. I have heard stories of laxatives, sleeping pills, and other horrible things being put in cups when people weren’t paying attention. Until you are finished, don’t put your glass out of your sight.
• Take care of your drunk self while still sober.
  • If you know that you don’t want to get too drunk, eat something beforehand. Fructose absorbs alcohol, so fruit or fruit juices are excellent.
  • Hydrate yourself. For every alcoholic drink you have try to get some water in your belly, too.
  • Have somebody you can call if something goes wrong.
• Save Lives. When you have a night or two that you abstain from drinking, be a designated driver. Tell your friends they can call you if they ever need help getting home.

I come from a family with a history of alcoholism, so I often go months at a time without drinking. Even during my study abroad in France I rarely had more than a glass of wine a month. If you have a similar family history and feel that your drinking is starting to become a problem, don’t wait to ask for help. I have seen firsthand what alcoholism can do to somebody and there is no reason to suffer alone. Get in touch with your local chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous immediately so that you can start being accountable and get the help you need.