However, if you surround yourself with like-minded people, such as sober individuals, there will not be that pressure to drink and do drugs. People go to college and achieve personal growth and education, and it is time to have fun and socialize. Every college and university in Canada is different, and some have a reputation for being party schools. If drug and alcohol use concerns you, choosing a school based on its current student life should be considered.

Once you get to college, pick the friends you want to hang around with, and do not be afraid to make your sobriety known at parties. If you are offered drugs or alcohol, simply say no and do not give in to peer pressure. Unfortunately, this often happens; students feel obligated and want to fit in and will drink excessively and use drugs to accomplish this. Much of this is setting boundaries with the people you associate with and knowing you can say no and walk away. Most college and university campuses promote sobriety and have student groups that organize sober events. Attending college is not all about partying, drinking, or experimenting with drugs. You will not necessarily avoid it 100%, but you can take responsibility for not putting yourself in situations where you are constantly exposed to it.