I’m not going to lie to you, being a college student is hard. Sometimes, we college girls have to rely on a good night out to keep the stress away. Whether you’re a regular at going out, it’s been a while and you need a refresher, or you’re just a beginner, we’ve all gotta start somewhere! So open your ears and take notes, ladies! Here is a five-year college veteran’s advice to going out:

Invest in a pair of cute, but comfy shoes.

I am not a girl who spends any amount of time, really, in nice heels, and I honestly can’t understand how these girls are staying upright when they’re walking through these uneven West Chester streets (no judgment, though, because that is a talent). If you’re like me and need something easy to walk in, or maybe just want to save your feet the struggle of being uncomfortable the whole night, invest in a pair of cute and comfy shoes. My go-to’s are always my pair of short black booties or my Toms!

And wear what makes you feel AMAZING about yourself.

Whether that’s your favorite crop top and a pair of high-waisted shorts (my favorite combo for night’s out), a dress, or even just a t-shirt and jeans, wear what makes you feel good about yourself! Don’t waste any of your night feeling self-conscious about yourself. Be the goddess that you know that you are!

Take advantage of the pre-game.

I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH, HONESTLY. Especially if you’re of age and going to the bars afterward, this is essential. Do. Not. Skip. The. Pre-game. You’ll save yourself a lot of money at the bar by just drinking beforehand!

You might cry, but that’s okay.

All drunk girls are guilty of crying, in my own humble opinion, especially if you’re a super emotional human being like I am. It’s mostly over super pointless things that don’t need to be cried over, but don’t be put off by going out just because it happens once. I promise that it’s not an every-time-when-you’re-drunk thing!

Go to the bathroom, even when you don’t have to.

LISTEN TO ME...the girl’s bathroom in bars or at a party is honestly a religious experience. All drunk girls are kind to other drunk girls -- that’s just a plain fact -- and the best way to meet other drunk girls is by going to the bathroom. So go, get some compliments, and make some new friends! You might not remember them the next day, but at least you’ll always have the bathroom!

Don’t ditch your friend for a boy.

This one’s important, guys. Never ditch your friend to go off with a boy, especially if you two came together and were planning on leaving together! It not only jeopardizes your friend, but it also puts you in danger! You can see the boy in the light of day when you’re sober and able to make better decisions, but stick with your friends for your night out! You won’t regret it.

Be safe, and have fun!

Being a college girl usually means you have to look out a bit more for yourself. Carry mace or a taser with you, go in groups of people to parties, bars, or back home, and keep an eye on your drinks. But most importantly, HAVE FUN!!! That’s the whole point of going out, and the key part! Without fun, what’s really the point, you know?