Fresher's and Alcohol: Mad to get Mad Wae it?

Fresher’s week reminds me of one of my favourite quotes: “I’ve been drunk for about a week now and thought it might sober me up to sit in a library.”  Wise words, from renowned author and alcoholic, F. Scott Fitzgerald.  I feel it reflects the Fresher’s experience accurately: a week of partying followed by the realistic truth that there’s work to do when it’s all over.   It’s true to say that a lot of Freshers will be drunk for roughly an entire week.  But is getting drunk at Fresher’s just harmless fun?  Or should students be thinking about their health, safety and finances as opposed to reckless hedonism?

     Alcohol, and all the hilarity, vomit and amnesia than come with it, is synonymous with Fresher’s week.  As the French will be obnoxious and as Scotland will be wet – Fresher’s will be drunk.  Attitudes towards alcohol are varied.  Even with Scotland’s notorious booze culture, it’s a divisive thing for many people.  The Scottish government are taking it very seriously – seemingly one step away from prohibition.  But all things considered I don’t think it’s necessary to worry about students drinking. 

     It seems a little naïve to expect a Fresher not to get ‘too pissed’ because it’s seen as irresponsible.  The university experience is about many things from academia to socialising.  But there’s one thing that makes it all meaningful: freedom.  The freedom to be who you are and express yourself; as well as the freedom of independence and spirit that students cherish.  But above all, is the freedom to have fun because at no other point in your life will you be as young and carefree.  

     But, with this in mind, there is certainly no freedom to be drunk, only the freedom to enjoy yourself.  The two should not be confused and students are aware of the dangers caused by drinking too much – do so then you won’t be enjoying yourself very much.  If you’re accepted into university in the first place then it’s because you have a certain degree of intelligence.  Therefore I’m sure most students know how to drink responsibly by experience and know the risks through education. 

     Putting aside the issue of alcohol, the most important thing for a Fresher to do is just get involved: have a blast – create memories and make friendships that will last a lifetime.  Remember, you regret only the things you don’t do.  Alcohol will undoubtedly be involved for a lot of people, but each individual knows what’s best for them: how much they can drink and how much they want to spend. 
    
     Fresher’s is about so many things from the budding academic within us to the montage of drunken memories.  But many people are left feeling conflicted and it’s a time of deep introspection.  Within the buzz of the Fresher’s Fair, under the flashing lights of the bar – uncertainty creeps into the revelry: why am I here? Do I fit in? Can I make this “uni thing” work? Will it be as good as my friends? Then what will become of me?  Sounds like something to ponder hungover – perhaps in a library.