Your first uni party - tips from the OG Party Crashers
If you’re anxious about attending your first uni party, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve been crashing parties for over 25 years!
Going to your first uni party can be an eye-opening experience. For some, this may be your first encounter with illegal substances or excessive drinking. For others, this is your first official party away from parental supervision and your highschool mates. Either way, it can be daunting and a bit overwhelming SO, we’ve compiled all you need to know about staying safe when out and about.
your first uni party can be an eye-opening experience
Eat some food
If you’re deciding to drink alcohol at a uni party, it’s important to get a decent feed in the lead up. Drinking on an empty stomach means the alcohol absorbs more rapidly into your bloodstream, which means you’ll feel the effects of alcohol faster. This may sound appealing to you but is problematic when trying to track your drinking throughout the night as your judgment becomes sketchy. You may end up drinking much more than you intended and ruining your (and your mate’s) night - or worse, landing yourself in hospital with alcohol poisoning.
Don’t forget about water
Did you know that alcohol is a dehydrant? That means the more alcohol you consume, the more dehydrated you will get. So, make sure you’re switching out some alcoholic drinks for some “clear beers”. Don’t forget to be drinking water before and after the party as well! You should be averaging around 3 litres a day. Your liver and bladder will thank you.
Watch your drinks
It's simple: One, pour your own drinks so you can monitor your alcohol intake. Two, never accept a drink from anyone or leave your drink unattended as this can lead to drink spiking. Three, if you think something happened to your drink, THROW IT AWAY! It’s better to be safe than sorry. Although most people have good intentions, it’s important to remember that not everyone has your best interest at heart. It’s important to be conscious of this so you can stay safe and look out for your mates.
You’re allowed to say no
Sometimes at uni parties, you might feel some extra pressure to participate in things you’re not really comfortable with. Remember, you are allowed to say no. If you don’t want to drink, you don’t have to. If you don’t want to try drugs, you don’t have to either. There are so many different groups of people at uni so don’t feel pressured to do things just because you think it’s the only option to making friends. There are plenty of other ways to find like-minded people such as university societies and sports! You’ll thank yourself later if you stay true to yourself and are confident enough to say set healthy boundaries.
Safety in numbers
It’s so important to NEVER leave a mate behind. Walking in groups or pairs can help reduce the likelihood of physical violence and sexual assault. These outcomes can have lasting effects on both the victim and the perpetrator.
Don’t break the bank
With technology allowing us to use our phones to buy things, it can be difficult to track your spending… especially during a night out. If you’re wanting to save money or are conscious of becoming tap-happy, withdrawing a set amount of money can be a great way to not break the bank.
Have some conversation starters
Making new friends can be daunting, and after being at the same school with the same people for 5 plus years it can seem impossible. So, to help yourself out, think of some conversation starters. It can be challenging to find common ground as some uni students didn’t graduate last year like you! Here’s a few questions to help you get the conversation going:
What degree do you study?
Why did you decide to go into that degree?
What do you want to do after uni?
Do you have any hobbies?
What’s been your favourite place you have travelled to?
The outfit dilemma
Dressing to impress is all well and good but if it’s compromising your comfort or health you may want to rethink it! When out and about (and on the dance floor,) there could be spilt drinks and even broken glass. Wearing closed in shoes is a great way to avoid cuts, blisters and bruises which might annoy your future self. Also, jumpers and jackets can be annoying but, on those cold, wintery nights, it’s important to stay warm. You don’t want to catch a cold when you have lots of assessment on the horizon!
Think about your future goals
Sometimes a night out can change the course of your life… and usually it’s not for the better. It’s super important to think about where you want to be and what you want to achieve in the future so you can remember why you’re making good decisions when out and about. Be the person your future self would thank you for.
Help is always there if you need it
If something does go wrong, do not hesitate to call Emergency Services (000). There are also other services such as Lifeline (13 11 14) if you need to chat things through.