How does a university student get a social life? Freshers Week, going out clubbing, pub quizzes, team sports or clubs and activities are all an essential part of the university social life that help you make new friends. It is important, however, to stay safe - follow our tips below to keep you safe.
I'm Bertie, Wellness and Ideas Manager at From High School to Uni Ltd. I'm in my 3rd year of a BSc in Hospitality Management at the world's top hospitality business school. You can imagine how much drinking and socialising goes on in the hospitality industry! I'd like to give you some great tips on how to stay safe and enjoy the best nights out.
It is important to have a social life as a student. It gives you something to look forward to when you're feeling overwhelmed by your studies. It allows you to take a break from the books, relax and unwind, and is crucial for your mental health and wellbeing. However, it's important to remember that socialising comes with its own set of risks, especially when it comes to drinking. As much fun as it is to let your hair down and enjoy a few drinks with friends, it's equally important to stay safe and avoid any potential dangers. The last thing you want is to end up in hospital with alcohol poisoning. Yes, it's a thing!
In this blog, I'll give you some tips on how to stay safe and still have fun on a night out. These tips apply to all gender and all ages, whether you're a fresher or a senior. Follow these tips and learn from my mistakes!
Tip #1 - Lighten your load!
Try not to take a bag or purse with you when you go out. It's easy to forget and leave them behind, and they can be a nuisance to carry around all night. If you must bring something, just bring your mobile phone, some coins for the cloakroom and a debit or credit card to pay for drinks and food. Check in your coat to the cloakroom, and don't leave it lying around in the club. It will probably get stolen, which will be an issue if you kept your house-keys in the pocket! Also, get one of these credit card holders to stick on the back of your phone and keep your cards and ID in there. Just don't keep your phone in your back pocket where it can be seen or pickpocketed.
Tip #2 - Stick together!
It is important that you stay with your group of friends. This way you can keep an eye on each other and make sure everyone is safe. If your group of friends likes to have a drink or three, try taking it in turns to have one person be the 'minder' for the night to keep everyone in order. There's usually always a 'sensible' one - just don't make it their turn every time.
If you do get separated from your group, make sure you text the group chat and check in to let them know you're OK.
My sister used to go clubbing with a group of friends when she was at university in the UK. One of her friends would usually get drunk on nights out and disappear with another group of students without warning or answering her phone. So my sister tracked her down by going up to the DJ, using the mike and making an announcement as if her friend was a lost child in a department store. And it worked!
If any of you are unlucky enough to have your drink spiked, and you feel unwell (dizzy, sick, faint), tell your friends or the bouncer or barman IMMEDIATELY and get medical help. Don't rely on the new 'friend' you may have just met!
Tip #3 - Plan your journey home
Discuss the plan for getting home with your friends BEFORE you go out. Get a sober friend to give you a lift (and contribute towards the fuel costs in return), call a car service or take public transport. Just make sure you know the last tram/bus/train home before you leave, so you know your deadlines. Never get into a car with someone who has been drinking - even if they 'look' sober or say they feel sober. It's just not worth the risk.
Tip #4 - Use technology to stay connected
Use the Find My Friends app on your mobile phone to see where your friends are, if you're separated and to make sure everyone is safe. My friends also use the Life360 app to create groups and families. Of course, there is always snapmaps. Make sure you check in when you get home if you're all separated. It's good for peace of mind and to keep an eye on each other.
Tip #5 - Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drink plenty of water before you go to bed, and hopefully you will have done at least once or twice during the evening. Drink at least one or two glasses first thing in the morning. This will help you feel better and get back to your normal routine more quickly. If anything, drinking so much water will make you go to the toilet in the morning, which will help you get up and about and combat that hangover!
In conclusion..
Thanks for reading! We hope these tips have been helpful and wish you a night to remember. For more great advice on navigating university life, check out our other blogs and follow us on Instagram for inspiration and more tips. And don't forget to order the book for your A-Z guide to navigating university life.