Life is full of decisions.

Should you eat pizza or salad? Go out or stay home and study? Go to bed or begin another show?

We’ll admit that some decisions are easier than others. There might come a point in college where what seemed like the right choice at the time is no longer the right choice. Remember with freedom comes responsibility.

Before you roll your eyes and close the tab, hear us out. You might learn something.

We’re talking about those awkward topics like accidentally drinking too much. 

Drink, Drank, Drunk

Whether you’re new to campus or a graduating senior, these are a few things you should know before you take that shot:

Oklahoma State is a DRY campus, so if you choose to drink off-campus, make SMART choices. 

Those under 21 DON’T get to “choose” the off-campus option. But there are plenty of things to do around Stillwater.

HINT: If you choose to drink underage, you’re looking at Underage in Possession charges, among others. Misdemeanors at the very least, but very expensive. HINT HINT: There is such a thing as a Social Host Law. Meaning, if people under 21 are gathered and drinking on private property, the person who provides the location is considered the “social host” and will be held accountable.

Know the signs of alcohol poisoning. It’s lethal.

Signs of Alcohol Poisoning

• Individual is unresponsive
• Individual cannot stand unassisted
• Individual won’t wake up
• Individual’s breathing is slow
• Individual can have either flushed or pale blue/gray toned skin
• Individual may vomit while passed out

You should never leave someone who is suffering from any of these signs unattended.

Also remember that an individual does not have to display any or all of these signs to be suffering from alcohol poisoning. They may appear to just be passed out. Friends don’t let friends die because they are afraid of getting into trouble. Cowboys are better than that! In fact, did you know that OSU has a “Good Samaritan” clause in the Student Code of Conduct? Check it out!

You won’t get in trouble if you call for help

The state of Oklahoma participates in the Medical Amnesty Initiative. This law grants intoxicated minors limited legal immunity when they seek help for themselves or another individual who is in need of immediate medical attention.

So, if you see someone who is suffering from these symptoms, DO call 911 immediately. Cowboys look out for each other.

Medical Marijuana

In case you were wondering… even though medical marijuana is legal in Oklahoma, it’s still illegal under federal law, which means it’s not allowed on our campus.

Why? OSU receives federal funds so it must comply with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act.

What does that mean? NO marijuana on campus or at any OSU sanctioned event or activity.

Let’s review

TIPS to be safe when you go out

• Go with friends
• Never take open drinks from a stranger
• Always have a sober friend in your group, especially if you plan on driving home
  • By sober, we don’t mean the “least drunk.” This means selecting the most awesome bud that will take one for the team and NOT DRINK AT ALL for the evening to make certain everyone stays safe. The best part is that it doesn’t have to be the same person each time. Take turns. That’s what friends do.

Cowboys, remember to keep making smart decisions. You’ve got this!