High School is a time for people to discover who they are and who they want to be. Developing into a person is not easy and sometimes it is hard to see the difference between what is wrong and right. When a moment presents itself and all your friends are around it can be hard to say no when you are uncomfortable.

Throughout my high school years I have been offered alcoholic drinks at parties and what not. I can see how easy it would in the moment to just say yes to fit in and be one of the cool kids. However I never did because I knew one drink was not worth it. Even when my friends tried to tell me that it would be ok to just have one, I stood my ground and I am proud that I did.

With graduation celebrations, prom after parties and end of the year parties, alcohol is around every turn. The excitement of new moments in your life does not mean you should participate in illegal activities. Fun can be had without alcohol and illegal substances. The consequences of alcohol can destroy your future and in the end, having fun at a party is not worth jeopardizing your future.

Aside from the fact that underage drinking is in fact illegal, it can also lead to a night full of mistakes. Alcohol can impair your thinking and influence you to do things you would not normally do sober. A mindful decision cannot be made under the influence of alcohol and will lead to a dangerous situation whether it be getting in the car with someone under the influence or taking your relationship to the next level.

The effects of alcohol on the human body is strong, but the effects on a teenage human body that is still developing is very harmful. Underage drinkers are more likely to develop an addiction, liver problems and experience suicidal thoughts. During teen years the brain is still developing and alcohol can poison the brain and hurt the developmental process.

If your friends are pressuring you to drink maybe it is time to find a new group of friends. The decision to drink or not to drink is up to you and only you. True friends will respect your comfort zone. However sometimes you can find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and it is very challenging to say no and walk away. In this situation it is best to call an adult or trusted friend to take you home. Before you take a sip from the red cup in your hand, consider what you are really doing and the responsibility that comes with it.