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I think it's important that we all keep in mind that we represent each other. When we
come to Penn State and we don our Penn State gear and identify ourselves as Nittany Lions,
we represent all 46,000 students that go to this university, wherever we go -- whether
it's in Happy Valley or anywhere in the world, we need to keep in mind that we reflect on all of us.
My statement for Take the Lead is just don't feel pressured to drink if you don't want to. I've always felt that
if I didn't want to drink, nobody could ever make me feel like I had to. I think it's good
to be confident and stand firm in your decision.
Joining organizations is the best way to make your college experience exactly what you want it to be. Penn State, with there being so
many people, if that makes you nervous, joining a student organization is a great way to make
your community feel smaller for you.
I still got pretty involved. My freshmen year, I decided to join two different clubs: the Pre-Medical Society and then Coaches Vs. Cancer, so through
those, I was able to make some pretty close friends.
It's great to have someone with you that you feel comfortable with and that you know is going to take care of you. It's a
crazy world in itself and there's a lot going on always downtown. You want to make sure
that you're there with someone you trust.
Coming here as a freshman, and making that decision not to drink right when you get on campus can be a little intimidating because
you're surrounded by a whole different culture that you might not be exposed to prior to
coming to a university. What's really important to know is that you'll be surrounded by people
who are very supportive of your own decisions, they won't judge you because of your actions.
You can still go out and have fun with them.
There are so many other ways to meet and make friends - You really don't have to go out and party to do it.
No one can make you feel bad if you decide not to drink. It's a personal choice. And if you decide not to drink, stand
firm in your decision and stick to it.
If one of your friends has had too much to drink, I don't think there's any harm in offering them a ride home. If they don't want to take
it, at least you said something, and at least you tried.
When I first came to campus, I decided not to drink. It wasn't always easy, but I learned that my friends' views of me
weren't changed because of this decision. Make your own decision about drinking and stay true
to your morals and core values.
Be very aware of your situation. You don't want to get caught with something you feel uncomfortable with, and if you do, don't be afraid to get out of the situation.
As president of the Blue Band, I know that leadership never really ends.
No matter where you are, never stop being a leader.