Is it possible to get in trouble for being intoxicated when over the age of 21?

Student Lounge College Life
1

Last night, I went to the bar with a few friends and came home relatively late. I was not overly intoxicated, but I was probably at least visibly intoxicated. So, my RA happened to be in my lobby when I was going back to my room. She asked me what I was doing, and I just said, “Oh, going to bed.” I probably slurred because that warranted her to tell me to sit down. Well, she asked me my name, and I told her. She got on the phone with someone - I am not sure if it was campus police or the residence life desk - but she gave the person my name, and he must have looked up my name and verified that I am 22. She then let me go to bed.

I do not know if I am just being paranoid, but is it possible to get in trouble with the school for being intoxicated when one is over the age of 21? I just worry that there might be a document of the incident. I have never gotten in trouble with my RAs in the past, so this is a new experience for me.

I think the RA is just on high-alert this weekend because the weekend before spring break is a big drinking weekend at my school, but I am worried that something will happen. I think if something would happen, however, I would have been contacted by someone today. I am just really paranoid at the moment.

2

Sounds like the RA was doing what she was supposed to do. Watching out for the health and well being of the residents. I think your fine. You are of legal age.

3

While it is not illegal to drink when you are over 21, being heavily drunk can lead to other trouble:

  • While walking down the sidewalk, you may be more likely to cross the street unsafely and get hit by a car, or trip and fall.
  • You may be more easily victimized by a criminal (robber, rapist, etc.).
  • You may more easily get into a fight.
4

Lol, you are good! As long as you weren’t bothering other people, you don’t have to worry.

This conversation would be funny and confusing in any other country in the world.

5

Since you’re of legal age, most likely the only reason you would need to worry is if your school or your specific dorm has some sort of policy against consuming alcohol regardless of age, and regardless of having consumed it off campus. Such restrictions exist at places like BYU and other colleges with strict religious rules, some dry campuses and some wellness / substance free dorms.

6

I don’t think you have an issue with the RA, but for future reference, public intoxication is a crime in many states. It may not be enforced 100% of the time, but it is a danger as some people become less able to evaluate their actions when they drink. They do and say things that get them noticed by law enforcement folks.

7

It may depend on the rules of your particular school.

8

It may not be drinking that gets you into trouble, but causing a disturbance or peeing in the halls or the like.