Working Hard, Playing in Moderation: Managing College Drinking Culture
February 4th, 2025
Writer: Helen Hannan
Editor: Lexie Meltzer
At a school like the University of Michigan, I often hear statements along the lines of “I won’t drink like this after college” or “I’m not addicted — it’s just college.” These sentiments don’t quite sit right with me — shouldn’t we be comfortable with ourselves now instead of waiting out the habits we’re actively forming? I get it, though, and it's much easier than the alternative.
Addiction and alcoholism in college is frequently overlooked, ignored, and silenced. It’s not an easy topic to discuss, and it’s even harder to distinguish between true dependency and a healthy relationship with alcohol for those of us who are often in social situations involving alcohol. Finding a balance that you’re comfortable with now, instead of looking forward to a future of one, should be the goal. Because, let’s be honest, the habits we form around alcohol during college are unlikely to spontaneously change on account of a degree in our hands. UMich is famous for having the perfect “work hard, play hard” balance, but it's important to find that balance within the “play hard” too.
To me, living a healthy life means living with intention. I like to be intentional about my actions so that, therefore, I can be proud of those actions. I haven’t always followed this rule because, frankly, it’s hard. Throughout college, I have had my fair share of lessons on alcohol and finding balance within my social life. Being involved in Greek life meant that, during my freshman and sophomore year, I was surrounded by opportunities to abuse alcohol and friends struggling with dependency. Junior year, the pendulum swung the other way: I found myself rarely going out because I was both exhausted by drinking culture and fearful of reaching that point of no return with alcohol. Both sides of the coin were hard for me: on one side I felt isolated from myself and my values, and on the other I felt isolated from my friends and my school’s social life.
Now, as I am in my final semester of college, I feel as though I have found a balance that I am comfortable with and that will be sustainable after graduation. I am mindful and intentional about drinking, and I don’t punish myself for mistakes I make because I am continuously trying my best. We’re all a work in progress, so we shouldn’t be putting that work off until some nebulous postgrad time. Working to build habits we can be proud of now instead of succumbing to a drinking culture that is often dangerous for us — both mentally and physically — can start in college. And it doesn’t require complete isolation or temperance. Setting short-term goals each weekend, discussing your concerns and your excitement with friends, and checking in with yourself are all ways to help you find your balance. It’s natural to experience both extremes, too, while finding your way to that happy medium, whatever that may mean for you. Navigating college social life is far from easy, so remember to have grace for yourself and gratitude for your experiences while finding what makes you the most comfortable during your time here. And, remember, you don’t have to (and shouldn’t) wait until after college to form habits that you can be proud of.
Photo Credits: Zoe Romeu
