<p>Another point is to be aware of the environment when you’re out on your own after high school. Some college police forces are pretty lenient- others are tough - and think nothing of picking off students who walk home from parties - kids who may have had one or two beers or more. My son’s college handed out over 800 underage drinking citations last year - and that’s not counting the DWI and public drunkeness charges. A few of his friends have been nabbed. One had trouble finding work last summer because he couldn’t drive.
The college does some “responsible drinking” education - which is interesting given that the cops don’t seem to pay attention. I know a kid who was charged because he was in the presence of drinkers! The courts are tough too - no leniency.<br>
So, the point is to at least be aware of the risks. Binge drinking can be very risky, but even a couple of drinks can get you in trouble in some places. If you want to risk your drivers license, and so on, that’s up to you. At least, do it with knowledge. Nasty surprises are never welcome.</p>