Pre-games and parties are a vital part of your Greek life experience. In fact, I’m guessing that many of you wouldn’t have joined if there weren’t an alcohol element to it. So when you’re assigned as a sober brother or sister at a social event, it can feel like a real bummer, especially if it’s with a chapter that you’re close with.
It can be awkward being that kid, who’s allowed to play the drinking games, but has to have someone else drink for you. Plus, you have to be a watchdog making sure that nothing is out of hand. If someone goes to the hospital, it could wind up being your fault.
That said being sober at a party has its benefits as well. Here are five reasons why being a sober brother or
sister isn’t all that bad.
1. You get to watch your friends make fools of themselves from an outside perspective-
If you’ve never watched drunk people in action, you’ll be surprised to see how differently they act when they’re four or five drinks deep. Generally they’re a lot more social and upbeat; once in a while, you’ll have that brother or sister who goes around hugging everyone they run into, including complete strangers. They might even randomly pass out in the hallway, which is where you come in and document it, so they’ll never live it down.
2. Talking with someone you’re interested in when you’re sober can lead to a more meaningful relationship-
Let’s be honest, how many times has your drunken hookup with someone you’ve never met before led to a relationship or even a date? If the number is more than one, I’m genuinely impressed. I’m not saying that everyone at college is looking for a relationship, because that’s not the case, but if you are, then you’re likely not going to find one at a party if you and your “partner” are both drunk. Thus, if you’re sober and happen to find someone else who is too, (because not everyone who goes to a party chooses to drink), then there’s a possibility that the two of you could really hit it off.
3. You will get more experience handling uncomfortable situations-
Sometimes being sober at a party full of drunk people is awkward: When a random person comes stumbling up to you and starts talking about random shit, it’s not always easy to properly handle that situation without coming off offensive. In addition, you might feel like you’re missing out on all the fun, having to watch your friends laugh and act silly, while you just stand there and try to blend in. Well, you know what? That’s life. Not every social setting will be easy to navigate. At some point you’re going to have to get used to making the unusual seem normal, and you might as well get a head start in college.
4. If you’re a sober brother or sister, it means that the event wouldn’t go on without your help-
Sometimes being in a fraternity or sorority requires putting the chapter before yourself, and being sober for a party is no exception. Instead of being miserable that you aren’t allowed to drink, realize that you’re helping your chapter out in the process. Just think about how your chapter has improved your college experience and understand that by “taking one for the team,” you’re giving back to it in a way.
5. If you do a good job, the chapter will have more faith in your abilities to take on other responsibilities-
Let’s say you’re looking to get a spot on exec or a chairmen position. If your brothers or sisters see that you can make sure alcoholic events run smoothly, it will only help your chances getting their approval if you’re given a much larger task.
Being the sober one isn't always easy, but it does have its perks. So next time you're sober brother or sister, at least look on the bright side.
