It’s Spring Break! Yes, finally a time to kick back, relax, and take a little time to myself. For many, spring break is the chance to be wild and outrageous. Most of the SMU students seem to be flocking to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Cabo. What makes Mexico such a hot spot for college students? Ah, well it’s the legal drinking age. After seeing friends enjoying a rowdy spring break, fueled by alcohol, I started thinking about the issue of whether or not the US should lower the drinking age?
In my opinion I think that the drinking age should be kept at 21. Many college students present the argument that at 18 years of age they are considered adults, but cannot purchase nor consume alcohol. Despite the large percentage of underage drinkers, I think that the drinking age should be kept at 21 because it prevents many unnecessary deaths. When you look around see college kids partying in Mexico and hear the horror stories of alcohol poisoning, drunk driving and other events resulting from poor decision making (kidnapping, rape, etc.), it is enough to see that people who are 18 are not mature enough to handle their alcohol.
If you look at the number one cause for car accidents in America you will find that teenage drivers are the reason. If you permit these newly legal youngsters to buy and consume alcohol, you will see a huge increase in the number of alcohol related collisions. In addition, if you look at the number of people who die from alcohol poisoning or are hospitalized for it each year, you’ll find the majority are under 21. I think this is enough proof to show that the barely legal need time to mature before given the privilege of alcohol, not only for their own safety but for the safety of others. If this isn’t enough to convince America to keep the drinking age at 21, then take a look at some of the insanity that goes on in Mexico, while the college students are away.
I think Krystal would say that girl doesn't look very classy!
ReplyDeleteAfter hearing about the crazy stories in Mexico, I am glad that my Mom did not let me go. Of course it is fun to be with all your friends and party all day and all night, but the excessive drinking amongst college students is outrageously dangerous. Don't get me wrong, I love to have a good time but sometimes the "funny" drunk stories are not so funny.
ReplyDeleteFor instance, my brother goes to Vanderbilt and a bunch of his friends went to Cabo. My Mom did not allow him to go and was glad she made this decision after hearing what happened to one of his friends. Supposedly a bunch of guys were drinking in a hot tub and partying at the hotel. When one of the boys was climbing out of the hot tub, he slipped and cracked his head open. The first night, he had to jump on a plane and head home. This does not sound very fun to me! Ending my Spring Break '09 early, NO THANKS!
Sure alcohol can loosen you up, make you more outgoing, and relieve some stress, but that does not mean drinking excessive amounts is healthy let alone safe. I think it is smart to keep the drinking age at 21 because although 18 year olds are considered adults, they have not proven able to maintain their alcohol consumption.
Definitely agree with Mrs. Channell! She is on her way to getting labeled a "sloppy drunk".