As an incoming freshman, I knew I had a goal in mind. Don’t screw up. In my mind, my idea of avoiding that is to stay on a clear path and keep my eye on the prize.

I am still a young teenager who likes to have fun — I just don't consider going to a stranger’s house on a weekend where I know drugs and alcohol will be present my idea of fun.

Why would you want to go through that anyway? You miss out on all the other cool events happening when you’re binging alcohol and slowly deteriorating your body with drugs and marijuana.

There are plenty of ways on campus and off campus to have fun without feeling terrible the next morning and having so many regrets.

1. Union Board Movie Series

At Indiana University, the Union Board decides upon recent movies to play in the Whittenberg Auditorium that is completely free for students. My friends and I often raid the convenient store in our dorm buildings and bring the snacks to the movie. The Union Board even sells candy and popcorn just like a regular theatre. In addition, you get the full effect of the movie experience by enjoying the movie and trailers through a large screen with surround sound. You get all of this while being able to stay completely sober.

2. IMU Late Night

The Indiana Memorial Union hosts late night activities every weekend including bowling, billiards and pool at a discounted price. This is a great place to go with a group of friends if you’re looking for a night out, but don’t want to do anything that means trouble later. Not only do you have a great time, but you can make conversation with each other without getting shushed for being too loud.

3. Mother Bear’s Pizza

I had the pleasure of visiting this cute parlor with my family for the first time. I was completely satisfied and had no regrets. I even went again for my first birthday in Bloomington because I liked it so much (also it was in walking distance, but that’s beside the point). I’m more of a New York Style type of gal, but this pizza place is popular among campus students and won me over as well. Be sure to bring your own sharpie to contribute your artistic abilities to the restaurant.

P.S. They give discounts on your birthday with your I.D. based on your age.

4. Netflix Binge with Friends

You can never go wrong with a little Netflix Binge. Finding a show that all your friends are interested in is a difficult task, but it is completely worth it when you can look forward to watching the next episodes to a show with them. It’s also the perfect excuse to pig out on all things junk food: candy, cookies, pizza and popcorn. It’s almost heavenly. If I’m going to be sick the next day, I would have no regrets if it had anything to do with food.

There are tons of other events that pop up on the IU campus throughout the year on a weekly basis. Always be on the lookout for what’s going to happen on campus. Chances are, you save yourself a whole lot more money doing something that won’t get you sick the following day. Which makes it even more worth it. I may not have attended a Fraternity/Sorority Party, but I would definitely say I’m truly experiencing college through all my new adventures.