While you are making changes in your schedule to accommodate a new exercise routine, consider your new outlet to be a hobby and pastime. Those students who make "drinking nightly" a hobby soon flunk out. Unfortunately, many of these individuals do not realize that they have greatly underestimated college success; partying and good grades are mutually exclusive. Unless you are majoring in underwater basket weaving, refrain from partying during the week. This will keep your schedule on track. A night of drinking results in a morning wasted. Time is important; make the most of it. If you find yourself forgetting what you did the night before or waking up feeling remorseful about what you DO remember, it's time to stop drinking. Binge drinking is destructive to you brain cells and to your body; it leads to dehydration. You are not too young to suffer the ill effects of drinking. Some are: kidney/bladder infections, malnutrition, ulcers, and liver damage. Drugs also have become ever-present on campus. There are a few shady individuals making a lot of money off of gullible young people. Marijuana and cocaine are so easy to obtain and can be very tempting to experiment with, especially if you have already had a few drinks. Besides being illegal (and partly because of this), these drugs and heroin contain "mystery" contaminants that can severely harm you. The THC in marijuana is argued to be addictive - at the very least, it robs you of ambition. Cocaine is highly addictive and can cost you your life savings (and your life). Many students choose not to drink or use drugs. In fact, many campuses and collegiate associations are adopting and promoting Drug Free policies and Alcohol Free Rush Week. In response to recent tragedies that have occurred, education regarding alcohol and drug use has become more prevalent. Poll | Goal Setting | Quiz | Experts Say | Links