The misconception that partying is the only way to have fun in college is perhaps the most common misconception amongst current and prospective college students. But what's the point of going out and getting wasted every night, then being hungover and not remembering what happened the next morning? I admit, it can sometimes be super duper fun, but there are so many more enjoyable ways to make lasting memories with your friends in college.
1. Play some great board games.
And by board games I mean mostly Jenga and sometimes Uno, neither of which are board games. This can be a great experience to either strengthen friendships or competitively destroy them.
2. Jam.
If you're musically talented, find some to be musically talented with. Sing all of your favorite songs. It's a great opportunity to bond over music and also brag about how great your favorite musicians are. If you're not musically talented, go to a concert! No need to get drunk since the energy at a good concert makes you feel incredible anyway.
3. Cook something with each other.
Not much is better than being idiots in a kitchen with people who you like while you create what you hope will be a masterpiece. Popular recipes among me and my friends include zucchini tots, french toast, cauliflower toast, and lemon whoopie pies.
4. See what organized events are going on campus.
There is usually some type of event organized by your school going on somewhere on campus during the weekends unless you go to a school with like twelve students. Wooster hosts a few craft nights every semester and it's literally one of my favorite things about going here. These events can be a great way to spend time with your friends in a safe environment and also meet new people who are into similar stuff as you!
5. Get off campus.
Go to a movie. Go out to dinner. Get frozen yogurt. Go mini-golfing. It's nice to take a breather from being on campus, especially if you're at a smaller school. If you're hanging out with the right people, you can make anything fun.
6. Have a movie night.
Movie nights are a great thing especially if your friend group is awkward because this way you don't have to talk to each other. To bond during a movie night, all you need to do is stare at a screen together. Would recommend for introverts.
7. Just stay in and hang out.
I love nights with my friends here we can just hang out in someone's room and talk about whatever we feel like well we listen to some chill music. Some of my best memories at college have been made late at night just hanging out, alcohol and drug free.
It's so important to realize that there are other options on the weekend than going out and partying. Though many people think that if you don't party you're missing out on the true college experience, I really disagree. The true college experience is making great friends and being able to have a great time with them without the shield of substances and parties.
