Ah, College Homecoming weekend: the time where parties, football games and social drinking rule the school. Friends come up and visit from other schools or as alumni, or family comes up to watch the annual homecoming game. This weekend is one of the most if not the most anticipated weekend of the fall semester. You want to make sure you go the right parties and have a great time (responsibly of course). In light of this time of year, I've compiled a list of tips on how to survive this weekend and how to have the best time ever.

#1: Do ALL of your Homework EARLY.

You don't want to be that person on Sunday night or Monday morning doing everything while exhausted from partying all weekend. Especially if you have a paper or project due that following week. You and I both know you'll be super tired. We've all been this person at some point, just get it over and done with. Your future self will appreciate it.

#2: If You're Considering Going To A Party That Weekend, Get Your Tickets ASAP.

Many of them are popular for a reason, which is why they SELL OUT for a reason. Don't be the person that gets their tickets last minute. Especially if they're not selling at the door. Doing so is a high risk of getting scammed with overpricing or a fake ticket. If you do end up being in this position, be sure to buy with discretion. Or you might end up buying a $30-40 ticket for a party that was actually $10.

#3: If Possible, Have At Least Two Friends As Designated Drivers

That way if one gets too drunk, the other one can at least drive them or you back home. If not, have some extra money just in case you need to take a cab. Or when in doubt, find out if there's other people you know going to the party and carpool together in either their car or a cab. Always try to keep these as a backup plan in case something happens.

#4: Drink LOTS Of Water

In most cases, Homecoming = lots of alcohol consumption. So make sure to drink water periodically to stay hydrated. If you can't get your hands on it, then Powerade or Gatorade will do just as fine. Or you may either get hungover, or end up being "that" person. Or both

#5: Don't Be "That" Person

We've all seen them before: the one person who's had too much to drink and can't handle it. So they end up stumbling all over, or in a worst case scenario get taken to the ER. Everyone will remember your face and the incident for a long time. So in short, know your limits and stick with them. Make sure you eat before you drink too, it helps. A lot. You don't have to always be ridiculously wasted to have a good time at Homecoming. However if you do become this person, stay hydrated, eats lots of starchy food (bread, potatoes, pasta, etc.), and stay away from the dairy or anything too acidic (oranges, tomatoes, etc.).

#6: Travel In Groups

This one applies to both sexes. Coming across strangers who will genuinely help you out isn't always common (or realistic to hope for). That being said, go out with at least 2-3 friends and have a buddy system. And always keep an eye on your drink. If you put it down during a party, get another one.

#7: Have Fun

Homecoming is a time to enjoy yourself, and you should never let anyone or anything ruin that for you. Meet new people on campus, dance, and enjoy a quality football game. Don't be afraid to make friends out there. Go out and enjoy that tailgate party before the game. There's always something going on homecoming weekend, so go out and have a great time! Just make sure you're safe and drinking responsibly.