5 ways to have alcohol-free fun at college

FACT: 20% of college students don't drink alcohol.

Are you one of them, or do you want to be? Take heart! ❤️ Having fun and remaining sober are not mutually exclusive!

There are lots of clubs you can join on campus, and you can be assured that the focus won't be on alcohol.

Here's a sampling of club categories from a small liberal arts college in the Northeastern U.S. This one small school has more than 70 clubs!

• Academic

• Leadership

• Club Sports

• Performance

• Service

• Cultural

• Media

• Political

• The Arts

• Religious

If you don't find a club you like, your school will probably let you start a new one!

Chances are your college sponsors weekend outings to nearby cities for activities like:

• Scenic tours

• Foodie events

• Museums

• Festivals

• Concerts

• Theatre

• Ball games

• On-your-own adventures

Check with your Student Services office to see what's available.

Take things into your own hands and invite people over for:

• Brunch

• Watch party

• Barbecue

• Dinner

• Game night

• Pot-luck dinner

Serve non-alcoholic beverages and perhaps test out your cooking skills to (hopefully) wow your guests with great food!

Not sure how to cook? Check out some dorm-friendly cooking ideas in this Byte.

You can gain deep satisfaction by volunteering for causes you care about.

Check with your college or the town/city website to learn about service opportunities.

• Big Brother/Big Sister

• Foodbank volunteer

• Environmental causes

• Habitat for Humanity

• Holiday gift drive

• Leading campus tours for prospective students

Do you enjoy the outdoors? Try these healthy and fun activities:

• Hiking

• Skiing

• Relaxing at the beach

• Kayaking

• Playing frisbee, soccer, or Spikeball

Participating in these activities will help you find a friend group that has similar values and interests. Soon you'll be surrounded by like-minded people who support your decision to remain sober.