It is difficult to get to sleep early on a college campus on Friday night. There is always at least one party raging in my dorm. As the night progresses, the crowds only seem to grow larger, and I lie awake wondering how these seemingly overworked students have the energy to “turn up” at 2 am.
Exciting as college parties may seem, they can be very dangerous. Far too many weekend hangouts manifest into bad decisions, next-morning regret, or incidences even worse.
Partying is a part of the college experience, but being aware of the risks of crazy parties and taking the precautions necessary to protect yourself are critical. The key is being in control of your own actions and making smart choices.
Before the party
Be sure you know the host and the intention of the party, and then scope out the vibe. Other students are your best resource to obtain advice regarding what types of parties to avoid and which are safe. Social media like Facebook allows for better planning for even impromptu, last-minute parties, but always be wary of events that you encounter solely through the grapevine.
Try to attend large campus parties with a group of friends. Before my friends and I leave for a party, we generally set a time frame for how long we stay. We ensure that no one ever stays or leaves alone. Because campus parties can be loud and crowded, be sure you have a way to contact your friends if you are separated from them.
If you attend a party alone, make sure to let a friend know where you are going and how long you will be there. This small gesture can act as an insurance policy. You will have someone to call for help and to check up on you if something goes wrong. There are also phone apps, such as Circle of Six, that allow you to connect easily with your friends if you are faced with an emergency situation.
At the party
To have the best time possible, make sure that you are in control. It goes without saying that you should avoid drinking excessively and stay away from any drugs. Any substance that can cloud your judgment may lead to unintended consequences. Be careful with your drink and never leave it unintended. Stay with your friends and be sure to support one another if anything goes wrong.
Know when to leave and what your limits are. Never feel pressured to stay if you are uncomfortable. If the party is too crazy or not what you expected, leave!
Safer alternatives
College parties do not always have to be loud and rowdy. They can be merely exclusive with just a few close friends. I once hosted a princess-themed college party. I decorated my common room with streamers and lanterns inspired by Disney’s “Tangled” and prepared an array of simple food, like finger sandwiches made from cucumbers and cream cheese, and Betty Crocker tea cakes. I bought plastic champagne glasses and filled them with soda and ice tea. The scene was probably no different from a 5-year-old’s birthday party. Nonetheless, memories were made, laughs were shared, and a game of Disney Apples to Apples kept everyone occupied. Surprisingly more than 20 students shared my enthusiasm and came to the party.
Admittedly my friends and I are not the norm. Nevertheless we are not the only ones either. Some students run an activity night every Friday for those uninterested in a wild nightlife. They play board games, learn to juggle, or make a craft. Far from antisocial, they enjoy each other’s company while being safe. Even seeing a theater production or having a movie night with some friends can lead to just as many happy memories as a campus party.
As tempting as a party may be, sometimes missing out may be the safer way to go and make your college experience more memorable.
Aglaia Ho is a junior at Williams College and a native New Yorker. She also writes for her own blog at www.aglai
