Power hour: too hungover to attend class

Walt Porter

Those who have celebrated their 21st birthday with a bang usually are missing-in-action the following day to tell the tale.By consuming drinks with names like “Mind Eraser,” “Blowjob” and “Sex-on-the-Beach” many believed the following school day was a no-go.

“I just saw it as my 21st birthday so it was exciting; I really wasn’t worried about school the next day,” said a 22-year-old MCC student, who wished to remain anonymous.

That is a typical response from students who have the desire to go out for their “power hour” and consume unknown amounts of liquor once the clock strikes midnight. Sleeping would often be the next choice on a student’s list after a night of partying.

“I did have classes and I ditched them, I think I slept the next day,” the anonymous girl said.

For those who are unaware of the basic power hour tradition, an individual begins drinking at midnight and continues until 2 a.m. when the bars close.

“I think the teachers already expect it. It’s a community college, most students are fresh out of high school and ‘testing the waters’, but I don’t think it is an excuse,” she said.

There are many places to get served, but the cost can be excessive when compared to prices at a grocery or liquor store.

“Now looking back, I’m not so sure it was ever much worth it. It’s expensive and really doesn’t benefit you at all,” anonymous said.

MCC student Joseph Cerda decided on plans for his 21st birthday coming up in August, because it’s tradition for his Italian family to get together and drink.

“When I do turn 21, I do expect to be drinking. It’s traditional and I grew up in an Italian family; it’s a big step. It’s all about the memories with your family,” Cerda said.

Tradition or not, missing class for any reason could count as an absence. Some students thought to play their cards right and use a well-thought, seemingly innocent excuse to sway their instructors.

“I’ll play the innocent card. and say; ‘I couldn’t make it’ or ‘my tire went flat,’ or something like that,” Cerda explained.

Careful planning was the key for students who anticipated a night out at the bar with their close friends. They kept track of the days and hours until they could legally purchase alcoholic beverages.

“It’s actually on a Thursday. that’s the thing; it depends on how much I drink. Probably not . Who am I kidding?” said Cerda, when asked if he planned to attend school the following day.

Not all students chose to drink on their birthdays, as was the case with Drew Solomon. He was in Missouri, serving a two-year mission for his church.

Solomon believed that it was not the best idea to miss a class because someone gained the right to drink. He could see the long term effects of alcohol and thought that focusing on school was more important.

“If you’re not serious about school, I guess that’s not a big deal, but if you’re trying to get into a good school, then it’s probably not wise,” he said.

Solomon believed that drinking the night before classes could end up being a losing battle.

“I think it’s a stupid thing to do any time, and especially stupid to do the night before classes,” Solomon said. “Chances are, if you get super hammered the night before you’re not going to feel like going to classes the next day, so you probably won’t end up going. And if you do, you’re not going to have the capacity to pay attention, and understand what is being taught.”

Erin Rawson, a communication professor and director of speech activities, stated that moderation and safety should be the most important part of celebrating.

“I don’t judge whether they drink or not, I hope that they drink responsibly. I’ve had one student who died in a car accident. obviously I am concerned of their safety,” Rawson said.

She also explained her attendance policy in regards to celebrations.

“I give my students a certain number of absences each semester that they are to use wisely. if one of those happens to be for the day after their 21st birthday, it’s not for me to judge, but I hope that they do it very responsibly,” Rawson said.

  • Mesa Legend Staff

    These are archived stories from Mesa Legend editions before Fall 2018. See article for corresponding author.

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