How to party like a college rockstar

Ten steps to make you an instant party success

We all know that college parties can get wild, but surviving the night depends on a lot of factors. It is not just about staying alive. To survive a college party you have to have a good time, make friends and above all be safe. Hit your next birthday party, frat party, keg party or graduation party prepared to have fun all night and feel good the next day by following these steps.

Difficulty: Easy (may be harder if intoxicated)

Step One - Bring a friend
College parties are often big and rowdy. You will probably meet some new people while you're there, but its always a good idea to bring someone to talk to before the drinking games get started. Also, avoid drunk dialing people you know might be sleeping, studying or getting some action because you may burn some friendships that way if you start to piss them off.

Step Two - Don't drink and drive
Bring a designated driver or have someone you can call to get a ride home. If no one is available, write down the phone number for a cab and keep it on speed dial in your phone for easy access if you are tipsy.

In case you do drive and end up having a couple of drinks after all, call Keyz Thankz (519-457-9700) or One Too Many Designated Driving Service (519-857-2484) and they will drive you and your car home safely. Please NEVER drink and drive.

Step Three - Come prepared
If you need to BYOB, bring it, or if you don't want to drink, bring some pop or juice with you. Even if you are not asked to bring anything, be a friend and a good guest by bringing some drinks or snacks, it's a good way to meet people. Drunk people always love people with food.

Step Four - Obey the rules
Park in legal areas, keep the noise at a normal level at the party, and don't start fights (it's lame).

Step Five - Meet new people
Parties are time to have fun with your college friends, but also a time to meet new friends. Be friendly, introduce yourself, and if you don't want to waste your time, learn the difference between people who want to talk and people whose inhibitions have been lowered.

Ice breakers: Asking them about themselves, having food with you, and being slick by saving someone from a conversation they clearly do not want to be in.

Deal breakers: Bad breath, being so drunk your making an idiot out of yourself, and hitting on someone when they know you are attached.

Step Six - Carb it up
Avoid a hangover by eating ahead of time, staying hydrated throughout the night, and not mixing different types of alcohol. Also avoid dark drinks like red wine and rum, which have additional hangover-inducing chemicals. The best dinners before heavy drinking are high-carb meals like anything with bread, potatoes or pasta.

Step Seven - It's all about the liquid
Avoid getting too drunk too fast by alternating non-alcoholic with alcoholic beverages. You don't want to look like a lightweight, even if you really are.

Step Eight - Watch out for your friends
You can't have fun if your friends end up sick or with a D.U.I. ticket. Offer your friends water periodically, make sure they are safe if they pass out and keep track of how they are getting home when they leave.

Step Nine - Be a good guest
Thank the host of the party and try to clean up after yourself, or at least try to make sure you aren't the one trashing someone's house. Making friends and getting invited to more parties is a breeze if you are thoughtful in addition to being fun.

Step Ten - Practice makes perfect
Practice your flip cup at home, you'll impress people.