Who said uni socialising is just about drinking?

As the start date of university approaches, the excitement and anticipation are at an all-time high. New friends and experiences await, and according to college lore, drinking seems to be one of the most popular ways to enjoy both. But wait, what if you’re sober? Will you be missing out on the quintessential uni life if you’re not participating in what many consider a rite of passage for a university student? Absolutely not! 

Turns out, alcohol drinkers don’t have all the fun. Read ahead for five ways you can have the best Welcome Week without drinking a drop of alcohol. 

Look for sober campus activities 

The simplest way to steer clear of alcohol is to avoid activities that don’t revolve around it. During LSE Welcome Week, you’ll find a plethora of things to do. Go on a student-led guided campus tour or head to the LSE Student Unions Welcome Fair, where you can browse and sign up for clubs that will fit the bill no matter what your interests are, from bee-keeping society, an outdoor and hiking society, to sports clubs. You’ll meet like-minded people, discover cool spots on campus, and have the opportunity to explore new things, so it’s a win-win!

Ask for non-alcoholic options 

While some suggest carrying your own non-alcoholic drinks to parties, it can be quite a hassle, especially when it comes to impromptu plans. Instead of bringing your own beverage (unless it’s a BYOB!), don’t be afraid to chat up the bartender if you’re at a pub or restaurant and ask for non-alcoholic drinks. From juices, mocktails, sodas, to sparkling drinks without alcohol, there are plenty of options to pick from. You could even tell them to shake up a custom concoction! If you’re on campus, grab a non-alcoholic drink from the LSE student pubs. 

Be firm and clear about your boundaries 

This seems almost redundant to mention as one of the tips, but I’d argue that it is the most important one! Learning to say “no” is a skill that extends beyond just turning down alcohol - it’s a soft skill that is essential in not just your university life but in your future career as well. Be polite but firm in setting and communicating your boundary, and others will get the hint. Remember, you don’t need to have a detailed explanation for not consuming booze; simply saying no is enough! If someone who has had too much to drink appears overbearing, or you feel pressured in any way, remove yourself from the situation and leave the space or have a friend you can lean on for support. 

Find other sober people in your group

Being the only sober person might feel awkward and a bit lonely when everyone is out drinking at a local pub or partying it out at the club, so find your teetotaller tribe. You won’t feel left out, and you will have made a new friend (or two) with whom you have something in common within the first week of university! Plus, it’s easier to say no to alcohol when you have someone to keep you company. 

Don’t shy away from having fun 

Finally, the first week of university is all about exploring, meeting new people, and settling in before the academic hustle begins. So, don’t let your no-booze rule limit you from letting your hair down and having the time of your life - you’re in London after all! Attend get-togethers, join clubs, walk around discovering your future favourite spots, and soak in the feeling of being in the centre of one of the liveliest cities in the world. 

Whip up delicious mocktails for a party of your own! Here's how:

Get to know the best spots near campus to grab a non-alcoholic brew: