Navigating the bar scene in Tuscaloosa can be super overwhelming as a freshman. Although we do not endorse going out underage or the use of fake ID’s, we know these things are very common on college campuses. In today’s blog we will discuss all things bar safety. If you are looking for more college tips check out our Instagram.
Fake IDs
As a new student at UA, you may have noticed the presence of police in and around campus. The bar scene in Tuscaloosa is no exception. There are police all throughout the strip who are looking to give MIP’s and Fake ID citations. If you own a fake ID, be smart about it. Put away your ID once getting into the bar, rather than carrying it around in the back of a phone wallet. Do NOT hand a cop your fake ID. Make sure you have your government-issued ID on you at all times when going out. You will get in far less trouble for admitting to a cop that you are a minor then you will give a cop a fake ID.
Freshman Bars
On UA’s campus, there are two types of bars: Freshman/sophomore bars and upperclassmen bars. These can vary from year to year, but one thing stays the same. Rounders will always be a freshman bar. With that being said, know you are safe to frolic and live your freshman dreams at Rounders. This doesn’t mean drink too much and embarrass yourself, but, if you were going to engage in such activities, do it here rather than an upperclassmen bar.
Is he hot or are you just drunk?
This is something you should ask yourself before any kind of romantic encounters you may feel tempted to pursue when at the bars. Going out to the bars for the first time and meeting a bunch of new people can be so fun. But, refrain from letting alcohol cloud your judgment in all areas. A saying I like to tell my friends is “Just sleep on it”. Before making any big decisions while drinking, just sleep on it, and if you still want to do it in the morning, go ahead. 99% of the time, you will thank yourself the next day for doing so.
Hydration Station
Don’t underestimate the importance of water. Any bartender will be happy to give you a cup of water for free. Do this in-between drinks to avoid a gnarly hangover. One of the primary causes of hangovers is dehydration. By drinking water or non-alcoholic beverages alongside alcoholic ones, you can help mitigate the dehydrating effects of alcohol and reduce the severity of hangover symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue.Dehydration can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to think clearly, concentrate, and make sound decisions. When drinking alcohol, impaired judgment can lead to risky behaviors, so staying hydrated can help you make better choices and stay safe. The University of Alabama also has campus safety resources that are very important to know about!
Know Your Limits
Knowing your limits when going out in college is a fundamental aspect of responsible socializing. It’s an essential skill that ensures your well-being and helps you make safer and more enjoyable choices during your college experience. Recognizing your limits involves understanding your tolerance for alcohol, your comfort level in various social situations, and your ability to make responsible decisions. By acknowledging these boundaries, you can avoid overindulgence, protect your physical and mental health, and make good memories without risking your safety. In college, it’s not about pushing your limits; it’s about respecting them, which ultimately leads to a better night out, and a better college experience.
Why it’s Important to be with a Friend at all Times While at the Bar
Being with a friend or having someone you trust with you when you’re at a bar can be important for several reasons: Safety: Bars can sometimes be unpredictable environments, and having a friend with you can help ensure your safety. You can look out for each other and help each other make wise decisions, especially if one of you starts to feel uncomfortable or vulnerable. Responsible Drinking: Having a friend present can help you both monitor your alcohol consumption. They can encourage you to pace yourself and avoid overindulging, which can lead to dangerous situations, such as alcohol poisoning or making poor decisions. Emotional Support: Bars can be social places, but they can also be emotionally charged. Having a friend by your side can provide emotional support, whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, stress, or simply feeling lonely. They can also help diffuse tense situations if conflicts arise. Transportation: If you’ve been drinking, it’s essential to have a sober friend who can ensure you get home safely. This can prevent drunk driving accidents and keep you from getting into potentially dangerous situations, like accepting rides from strangers. Peer Pressure: In a group setting, peer pressure can be a factor. Having a friend with you can provide moral support and make it easier to resist negative peer pressure, such as being encouraged to drink excessively or engage in risky behavior. Assistance in Emergencies: In case of emergencies, having a friend can be a lifeline. Whether it’s a medical issue, a safety concern, or simply needing someone to call for help, having someone you trust with you can be crucial. Social Interaction: Going to a bar alone can sometimes be isolating, and having a friend with you can make the experience more enjoyable. It provides you with someone to talk to and share experiences with. While it’s essential to be with a friend at a bar for these reasons, it’s also crucial to choose your company wisely. Make sure you’re with someone you trust and who has your best interests in mind. Additionally, always practice responsible drinking and know your limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable night out.
Never Drink on an Empty Stomach
Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach is generally not recommended for several important reasons. To drink responsibly and reduce the risks associated with alcohol consumption, it’s advisable to eat a balanced meal before or while drinking. Having food in your stomach can slow down alcohol absorption, moderate its effects, and provide essential nutrients to support your body as it processes alcohol. Additionally, drinking water between alcoholic beverages and pacing yourself can further minimize the negative effects of alcohol. Drinking on an empty stomach will get you too drunk too fast and cause you to throw up and feel sick which is never good. The best way to avoid a hangover is to eat after going on and before going to sleep. Luckily, Tuscaloosa has great fast food places that stay open to the late hours of the night and are close to the bars. Quick Grill is an iconic freshman year place to eat after leaving the bar, Rounders especially. There is also a very popular Taco Bell and Standard Pizza on the strip and its a go to spot after leaving the bar. Their food will help sober you up and you’ll be glad you got some food in you when you wake up the next morning. NEVER drive drunk to get yourself food. There are so many options that I just named that are on the strip, convenient for you. If you want a different type of food then ubereats or doordash instead of driving yourself.
