Party smarter: How to navigate college parties
During your time at CU, you may find yourself at parties or social events where alcohol or other substances are around. This guide is here to help you party smarter, with relatable tips to have fun and make sure you and your friends stay safe.
Choose your own adventure
Not everyone drinks or uses substances in college. Only you know what fun means to you, so make choices that fit your vibe.
If you decide not to drink or use substances, that's totally fine. You can still go to parties and have a good time. In fact, most CU Boulder students support not drinking at parties.
Decide what’s best for you
Setting limits and making intentional choices can help you avoid unwanted experiences. Here are some things to consider:
Your crew: Stick with people you trust and make a plan to get home safely.
Party type: Bigger bash or chill hangout? Choose what feels right.
Time: Know when to leave and check in with friends before heading out.
Frequency: Too many parties can affect school and life—pace yourself.
Amount: Start slow, take breaks and know your tolerance (it may change in a new environment).
Master the art of saying “I'm good, thanks”
Whether you want to dodge peer pressure or make a smooth exit from a party, it helps to have a game plan. Think ahead about what you'll say or do, so when the moment comes, you're confident and ready.
Avoiding peer pressure
- Hold a soda or water so you look set.
- Join non-drinking activities like games or chatting.
- Ask friends to back you up if someone’s pushy.
Leaving a party
- Have a ride plan and make sure your phone is charged.
- Tell a friend you’re ready to go.
- Make an excuse if needed—your safety comes first.
Your real friends will always have your back, even if you want to head out early or take a break. If your group isn’t respecting your choices or is pressuring you, look for someone else you trust who can help you out.
Stick to one substance at a time
Using more than one substance at a time, including alcohol, medications or other drugs, can increase your risk of experiencing an overdose. The interactions between substances are often unpredictable and may affect you more than others. For this reason, use only one substance at a time.
Be ready for emergencies
Know the signs of overdose or alcohol poisoning:
- Passed out or unresponsive
- Slow or no breathing
- Vomiting while passed out
- Involuntary peeing or pooping
- Pale/bluish or cool/clammy skin
- Pinpoint (small) pupils
- Making gurgling, wheezing or snoring sounds
What to do:
- Call 911 immediately
- Put them in recovery position
- Administer naloxone (even if you’re unsure about their condition)
- Never leave them alone
Good news: CU’s Amnesty Policy and Colorado’s Good Samaritan Law can protect you from disciplinary action or prosecution if you call for help and stay with the person.
Look out for others
Most sexual assaults involve someone the person knows. Watch out for someone who is:
- Coercing or pressuring someone to consume more alcohol or drugs than they are comfortable with.
- Initiating sexual contact with someone because they are intoxicated and less likely to resist.
- Isolating someone who has had too much to drink or is having a negative drug experience.
- Not telling someone what is in their drink or the type of dosage of drug they are ingesting.
If something feels off, step in or get help. Your actions can make a big difference.
Want more tips? Learn more about partying smart to keep your nights fun and safe.
Find support
Curious about your habits? You can get anonymous, online feedback about alcohol, cannabis or nicotine—no meeting required.
If you're looking to explore your relationship with substances, get naloxone or connect with a recovery community, CU Boulder has resources that can help:
Free naloxone and fentanyl test strips: All students can pick up free party smarter supplies, including naloxone, fentanyl test strips and more at the Health Promotion office at Wardenburg (third floor).
Free substance use workshops: Health Promotion offers free workshops to help students reflect on their relationship with alcohol and other substances. *Workshops are not considered therapy or substance abuse treatment.
Collegiate Recovery Community: There are weekly support meetings, substance-free activities and other resources for those considering, pursuing or actively in recovery from drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, self-harm, other addictions and unwanted behaviors.
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS provides several services related to substance use, including substance use assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members, referrals to recovery and other community resources and suboxone treatment.
Don’t Ignore It: Learn about reporting, getting support and helping a friend. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t ignore it.