Cheers, I'll toast to that!

One of the many things that I have always appreciated about being at Rice is the aspect of it being a wet campus. Granted, when I first came to Rice and when someone casually mentioned that the campus was “wet,” I was convinced that she was referring to the massive puddles all over campus. (And I thought to myself, definitely need to pack my rainboots!) But, I now fully understand the implications of having a wet campus, and with the recent probation period established for those that are underage, I thought it might be helpful if I share a little of what I have learned. From things to remember, to things to avoid, to things I wish I had known - here’s what I’ve learned during my time here.

That's not going to come off for a while

First off, let’s start with the cliché – It’s not a race, it’s a marathon! It is not who can consume the most, the most quickly, because that person is typically the first person out for the night. And who really wants to be that person? Instead, take your time and pace yourself while pre-gaming and during those power hours, it's about enjoying your company and relaxing a little. 

Fill that up with water or juice between drinks!

Remember to hydrate in between drinks! Alcohol acts like a natural diuretic, which means it stimulates the kidneys to filter more water out of your blood in order to process the alcohol. (Ahh, suddenly all of those restroom breaks make sense!) Thus, it is important to stay as hydrated (with NON-alcoholic beverages!) as possible. A great tactic that I’ve picked up is to have a glass of water for every 1 to 2 drinks that I consume. And better yet, with those wonderful red solo cups, it couldn’t be any easier! Between rounds at the keg or between those glasses of ale, fill your cup with water. You won’t feel pressured to go and grab something to drink, since your cup will be full, and it will keep you in a safer health drinking zone than if you do not hydrate with water.

Chips and dip? Dig in!

Don’t go out without eating something! I typically load up on something carby and filling, Chinese or Thai noodles, anyone? I’ve noticed that this typically allows me to drink more slowly. Also, if there are snacks at the party, dig in! Eating food slows down the rate of absorption in the blood stream, allowing you to relax and enjoy your company.

 

Take it from this guy, it makes your more sick

In my experience, mixing liquors hasn’t always turned out that well. It’s kind of like wearing black stripes with brown polka dots. Sometimes it’s a hit! But when it’s a miss, it’s a pretty BIG miss. Mixing fruity with tart with milky with creamy with fizzy will not bode well for your stomach, or your night for that matter. Also, uppers with downers, so caffeine with alcohol, a natural depressant, also does not mix well. So, if you do decide to mix, mix cautiously. Chances are if it doesn't feel so great once it hits your stomach and starts reacting with the other things it finds there, it definitely won't feel so great if it decides to make a U-turn. 

And, most importantly, if you do choose to drink, be aware of your surroundings and use the buddy system! This probation period is a chance for Rice to preserve something that we might have taken advantage of and bruised a bit in the past - the alcohol policy. 

Here are some resources to take note of whether you're out for the night or if you have more questions. Please don't hesitate to contact RUPD/EMS if you need assistance, and we at the Wellness Center are always here to answer your questions!

Rice RUPD/EMS: (713) 348-6000

Wellness Center: (713) 528-5194

So here's to enjoying (and remembering!) your nights, having a great time, and preserving a unique policy! *Cheers!*