Downtown shenanigans, nights out could take toll on life habits

I will be the first to admit I try to go out at least one day a week, preferably Wednesday nights when my cup runneth over with deals from the local bars.

Often times when I go downtown on any given day, I remember individuals I have seen from the previous time at the bars, and the time before that and the time before that. When I recognize people from previous downtown excursions, I wonder if they too recognize me and wonder why they see me so often.

Although, I have noticed that there is a certain no-no attached to drinking and partying so often, I, along with thousands of other students around the country, have been led to believe that this is the thing to do while in college. This is the time to be stupid and make mistakes. “What about your grades?” “Who is that and why are you going home with them?” These are a few questions I have been asked. But I wonder when people feel guilty and realize that they drink too heavily — more importantly, when they feel that they have made bad decisions because of drinking.

I find the difference in how much is too much interesting. Going out almost every night is a bit excessive, and then there are people that think going out once or twice a week is crossing the line. It certainly depends on how much drinking and partying affects a person’s other living habits like school and work.

I am not bad-mouthing drinking by any means, but experiencing this on a daily basis, I wonder if my drinking habits are the cause of many of my problems. Ever think to yourself, “Maybe I should stop drinking and provide myself with a better future and opportunities by going to class and not going out once or twice a week?” Perhaps that is a sign to buckle down and do what you came to college to do — academics come first and having fun comes second. Life lesson number one.

Reach columnist Kelsey Slowey at [email protected]