It takes more than luck to get what you want out of a celebration with friends! Whether you’re looking forward to Spring Break, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, watching March Madness games, gearing up for graduation, or something else happening this spring, make a plan to Stay in the Blue.
Make a plan
Check out the U-M Events Calendar for a variety of events and activities. Don't see what you want? Try searching by date or keywords.
If you live in M Housing, check out one of the many themed events your Residence Hall offers. Residents can ask their RAs for more information.
And remember to check in with your friends on how they want to connect. Creating options so everyone, whether they choose to drink or not, feels included is key to having a good time.
Attending an event
It takes time for alcohol to work itself into your system, and more alcohol doesn't always mean more good times. Download the new and improved Stay in the Blue app (it even has dark mode!) to get more of what you want from drinking while avoiding the things you don’t want. Remember, non-drinkers are always in the blue!
- Eat and hydrate.
- Set a drink limit.
- Count your drinks.
- Pace yourself — sip your drink rather than chugging it.
- Avoid shots and drinking games.
- Pour your own drinks and keep your drink with you.
- Know how any prescribed medications or other drugs you’re taking can interact with alcohol.
- Travel with a buddy. It’s less risky to walk home with people you know, especially at night. You can always call SafeRide for free, late-night transportation.
If cannabis use is part of your plans, having some of these Cannabis Conversations with friends before using can help you have the best (and safest) experience.
You can also try using a tool like Clear30 to explore your relationship with cannabis — use your U-M email to sign up for a free account!
Hosting an event
There’s a whole range of experiences on campus, with thousands of students choosing not to drink. Consider how your excitement affects our shared environment.
- Make sure the people around you are comfortable with the plans.
- Include alcohol-free options and food at your events so everyone feels welcome, regardless of whether they choose to drink or not. Maybe even try an alcohol-free gathering for an extra inclusive space!
- Know how to respond if someone experiences an overdose. This includes having naloxone on hand (it only works for opioid - heroin, fentanyl, some pain medications - overdoses), just in case. Get naloxone for free around campus.
- Become familiar with local laws, policies, and ordinances. Remember, it's illegal to have an open container of alcohol, including BORGs, on public property (streets, sidewalks) — even if you’re 21.
Did you know? The State of Michigan has a Medical Amnesty Law! This makes it easier for you to call for or seek help for someone at medical risk as a result of alcohol intoxication or overdose.
Check out our Social Gathering Guide for more ways to create the best possible experience, whether attending or hosting an event!
When I think about the Spring Season ahead, the energy that comes along with better weather, March Madness, St. Patrick's Day, and even graduation festivities, a top priority that comes to mind so students can stay connected and well is to be intentional. It can make such a positive difference when you think about the kind of experiences you want. The other thing to think about is the connection between personal and community well-being. What is happening in the community can impact my well-being and what I do can impact the community. It is a wider lens that helps everyone stay safe and have a blast as we enjoy all the great things about Spring.
~ Mary Jo Desprez, Director of Wolverine Wellness
When I think about the Spring Season ahead, the energy that comes along with better weather, March Madness, St. Patrick's Day, and even graduation festivities, I’m hoping we can be mindful of the impact our choices and behaviors have on others within the community. It does take more than luck to live into being the type of community we aspire to be and I hope we all can stay mindful of that, celebrate responsibly, and keep an eye out for others in our friendship groups who might need support!
~ Laura Blake Jones, Dean of Students