So you are about to embark on your first year at Queen’s university, but there’s one little problem: you’re underage.
If you think you’re alone, think again.
In 2005, approximately 86 per cent of incoming frosh were younger than 19, myself included. And let me tell you, I couldn’t have hoped to go out more, have more fun or make more friends. Looking back, everyone I know got through their first year at university as an 18-year-old with an experience comparable to any 19-year-old frosh. I may even have a few more stories to show for it.
What I wish I had known before going to university is this: just because you’re underage doesn’t mean you are missing out on everything happening on campus. Realistically, most people you meet during Frosh Week will be in exactly the same alcohol-prohibited boat as you.
I was a 17-year-old in my first year and 18 through most of my second. I thought that going to university at such a young age would cause me to miss out on everything I had thought the university night life was about: pubs, clubs and bars. In actuality, I just had to be a bit more creative.
The only restrictions facing you are your inability to enter bars or order alcohol. Upsetting, yes, but getting caught up in this one little part of university life will only make you miss out on the billions of other things you could be spending your time on. Instead of wandering around all night hoping someone will let you sneak into Smijie’s with a poorly imitated pen-drawn hand stamp, why not invite friends over to your residence for a party, or stay up all night with your roommate watching Grey’s Anatomy?
In my opinion, the opportunities that await you at Queen’s far outweigh any bar or drink that I’m sure most of you have already been exposed to. Spend time with your new pals. Share stories about your hopes and fears, high school, and that guy/girl you met yesterday in class. Make popcorn, play cards and laugh all night. At least you’ll it the next day.
The AMS previously ran an All-Ages Access program that allowed underage students to go to campus pubs, but restricted them from drinking.
This program was discontinued in December 2005, following a number of violations of the program.
The current AMS executive has pledged to reinstate All-Ages Access this year.
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