Don't feel pressured to drink. The best part about college is that there are all types of people. It's your opportunity to be whatever you want and seek out likeminded people. Even the frattiest, party hardiest schools have sober dorms. Sign up for one and you'll meet people who also aren't going to school to party.
Join groups on campus that suit your interest. Maybe there's a gaming group or an Asian movie club. If not, start one of your own. Hang out and have fun when you meet new people, but don't be afraid to tell them that you don't drink. Many people are "straight edge" for various reasons, be they personal, health or otherwise. Just be upfront about how you don't drink. As long as you aren't judgmental towards those who do, no one will really care.
Join groups on campus that suit your interest. Maybe there's a gaming group or an Asian movie club. If not, start one of your own. Hang out and have fun when you meet new people, but don't be afraid to tell them that you don't drink. Many people are "straight edge" for various reasons, be they personal, health or otherwise. Just be upfront about how you don't drink. As long as you aren't judgmental towards those who do, no one will really care.
If you do decide to try a bit of drink make sure you're in a safe place with people looking out for you! I think the danger of drinking for the first time in college is not that you'll get addicted but that you'll put yourself in unnecessarily vulnerable situations.
College is a time where people try new things and experiences but if you have no interest in them you shouldn't feel compelled to, I got to know plenty of non-drinkers at uni, as CG said it's finding where they all hang out!
The first time my friend tried alcohol we did so at my flat. She was happy about it because it gave her a chance to figure out her limits before attempting or society drinking events for the first time. If you can find someone you trust, that is a good way to test your limits and there's no risk of looking a fool if you have too much. Plus, it'll let you find the point where you're a little buzzed, but not actually drunk. Stick to that point and don't drink too often (more than twice a week budget permitting) and addiction shouldn't be a problem.
wow you sound just like me! It seems like everyone I meet at college loves to drink and do drugs. I cared about that stuff when I was like 15, so it's pretty annoying just being around all that but even more so especially since I live in the dorms. i'm sorry you are feeling this way. I really haven't met anyone else who is straight edge here but all I can say is that since starting college over a year ago I have grown to like and appreciate myself more. Please do not start drinking or anything to fit in. Rise above all that stupid stuff, seriously.
I would always bring water or something... it got to the point that people would have juice or soda for me. You don't need to drink to have fun at parties.... just stay true to yourself. :)
Hi, I'm the one who asked the question. The thing is... even the people in sober dorms actually aren't really sober. My best friend drinks and she does this thing where she gets very sexual and makes out with people. I feel awkward because I still haven't had my first kiss, I really don't fit in. No one in my room drinks but they are also very mean and I don't get along with them. I'm in an improv group where we are all nerdy but that doesn't change the fact that they have parties with drinking, pot, and bad decisions, which always leads to drama. I didn't mention that I don't think I can drink because of the meds I'm on. My friends tell me I'm making excuses and I should just join them, but I can't even handle their parties because I get anxious and overwhelmed. I already know I have depression and that's what the meds are for, but... I just want to be with my best friends, I want to have fun and let loose but I can't. What do I do?
To follow up, again, this is Serena. I'm just hoping that going to parties will mean that maybe I'll meet a guy. I'm just tired of being alone.
Honey, don't change yourself because of somebody else. You'll end up feeling awkward and disappointed in yourself and probably have regrets. Not drinking is NOT the big thing people make it out to be. I don't drink. Anybody who cares what you put into your body doesn't really matter, unless they care in a way that is GOOD for your health. (Honestly, friends disregarding your physical safety, which his what they're doing when they tell you to drink while on meds, don't sound like really good friends. It shows that they care more about them having a good time than you being safe. Not cool.) Perhaps you could just avoid the parties that are filled with things that make you uncomfortable, and hang out with people or in situations where you feel comfortable and enjoy yourself. There's NOTHING wrong with not wanting to drink or party! You just need to find your niche. :) And wouldn't you rather find a guy that fits in that same niche, so you have personality things in common? Seriously, you're totally normal and fine, and you won't miss out on anything but discomfort and regrets if you avoid the bad decisions others make and want you to make. Just be you; you're great the way you are. :) (Also, I know depression is hard from personal experience. *Hug.* Keep holding on, and you'll get through it. HOPE- Hold On, Pain Ends.)
It's true! I'm not into drinking or smoking or drugs, but I've made fabulous friends who are into all three. They invite me to their parties and enjoy my company anyway. I'm still adjusting to the fact that they don't mind having me around. I can be straight edge and still be cool??
Yes. I can.