Ain't No Party Like a Penn State Party

Penn State is an amazing school.  We have some of the finest academics in the nation, with a large alumni network that makes finding a job after graduation a piece of cake.  The Penn State community is one of passion and pride, and it is recognized internationally for its greatness.

However, I’m sure you’re all aware at this point the reputation Penn State has for being one of the nation’s top party schools.

College is a time to experience new things.  With no parents around to tell them what to do, a lot of students tend to submerge themselves into the party culture here at Penn State.  If you’ve ever tried to catch the White Loop on a Friday or Saturday night, you might not be able to get on due to the sheer amount of students, dressed in party attire. 

Personally, I never drank alcohol in high school.  Not that I was against it, it was just that none of my friends did, therefore I never had any interest in it.  Also I was way too scared of my parents to try anything. 

Obviously as well all know, consuming alcohol under the age of 21 in the United States is illegal.  However, it is a rule that is hardly followed by the undergraduate population of this school.  Even if you don’t drink, I’m sure you know someone who does.

Whether you choose to go out and get wasted on a Friday night or stay in your dorm and study is a personal choice.  I live in supplemental in North Halls.  Let’s just say the residents of North Halls are not party people.  You will usually find them doing laundry or hanging out with their friends watching a movie on a Friday or Saturday night.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.  Some people prefer being sober, they would rather not wake up in the morning with a killer hangover and a ton of regrets.

So, if you choose to go out and drink with your fellow peers, here are a some tips to keep in mind:

Know what’s in your cup: I know this seems kind of obvious, but fraternities can be a shady place to get liquor from.  Also it’s key to know what kind of alcohol you’re drinking, so you can gauge how much of it you want to drink before you get too drunk.  Any kind of liquor will get you drunk a lot faster than beer.  Also beware for mixed drinks: a lot of times they don’t taste like they have any alcohol in it but trust me, they do.

Don’t go out alone: Again, another obvious one, but bear with me here.  It is crucial that you not only go out with friends -- make sure you come home with them too.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost my friends at a party, and being alone in a basement with a bunch of shady frat boys and drunk girls can be scary.  Stick with your friends and look out for each other.  Besides, going out alone wouldn’t be as fun!

Still unsure?

• Here's a good article providing more tips on what to do if you plan to go out and drink
• Here's an article on some of the dangers of drinking