Yes, I am 19 years old... turning 20 very soon.

Yes, I am a college student.

Yes, I have a social life.

But no, I'd rather not binge drink every night of my college education.

You didn't see the last one coming, did you? You expected a yes, I love to party and drink and poison my body on a nightly basis while in the midst of my teenage years attending a party school. But that is not the case.

Truly, I never saw the fascination of wanting to feel like someone you're not; wanting to have to poison your body with a substance to take the edge off. I never understood the exhilaration people felt when they got themselves to a point where they were obliterated and unable to function.

I never understood why it was perceived to be cool to digest or partake in activities that were inevitably illegal and unhealthy for your well-being. So to say, it was not until I arrived at college to witness this utter fascination people possess.

Being raised in the most prideful hometown to exist, it was always emphasized to have good. But having a good time never entailed partaking in underage, illegal activities to ensure this good time. A good time consisted of being with family and friends, having passion, exploring the world around you, and appreciating the overall, under-appreciated beauty of this thing called life.

It was emphasized to work hard, be well, hope for success, value loved ones, and enjoy life.

And then this thing called college came along.

This thing that opened my eyes to a new world of kids who were taught that alcohol and drugs were the only things that brought you a good time and used their upbringing to persuade others to follow along.

It simply saddens me that our generation has lost the meaning and value of a genuinely good time.

The simple enjoyment of a nice dinner with loved ones, a movie and some popcorn with your best friends, a phone call after a long day of work, or a walk in the park on a sunny day are forgotten.

And it simply disgusts me that people are admired on how much alcohol they can consume or the types of hardcore drugs their bodies can tolerate, rather than the problems they have endured and overcome, or the success they have accomplished, or the true good nature of their personality.

Call me a grandma all you want, but I appreciate different aspects of life than the average college student. I enjoy performing activities that make me feel good about myself. I enjoy having a job during the school year and sacrificing parties to better prepare myself for my future.

I enjoy a night in with friends and a movie. I enjoy the beauty that sunsets provide. I enjoy attending a party completely sober and interacting with people in a genuine manner.

I value my education and I enjoy doing what's best for my well-being.

I am 19 years old... turning 20 very soon. I am a college student. I do indeed have a social life. But no, I do not fall into the peer pressure of alcohol consumption to be considered "cool".

So to all you college students going against your likings and falling into the trap of trying to "fit in"... you are powerful and unique, listen to yourself. Stand for your beliefs - it is the most admirable thing about a person, despite what is depicted of the typical college student.