For some, today will be a day of drinking. In fact, for many, today will be a day of drinking. We can’t deny it, and we can’t shy away from it. It’s the truth. All we can do is hope that those who do choose to drink will do so safely and responsibly. For others, it’s likely they’ll at least be entertained by the festivities or will find means to avoid it.

The most important thing to remember today is that the police on campus are here for our safety. They’ll be at the bars, they’ll be on the streets, and they’ll probably check up on some apartment parties, too. Respect them because they’re looking out for us. They don’t have personal vendettas against students drinking, and they don’t particularly want to hand out drinking tickets. They would just rather students drink legally and, even more importantly, responsibly ­- and so would we. It doesn’t matter if you like it; the police will be here looking out for you. So save them the trouble and be safe.

For those who do choose to partake in the Unofficial festivities, be considerate of those around you who choose not to drink – whether it’s because they don’t drink or because they’re underage. Nobody should feel pressured to drink today.

If you’re someone from out of town, respect our campus. And, no matter who you are, do not under any circumstances drink and drive. It’s not smart, and those incidents give police and the administration fuel to shut down Unofficial. The risk at which you put yourself, your passengers, pedestrians and other drivers every time you get behind the wheel when you’re intoxicated isn’t worth it. So don’t do it.

And don’t forget to be considerate of those who have to work today and deal with the rush of drinking students coming in and out of restaurants. Unofficial is not an excuse to go crazy and trash restaurants, or to be rude or disrespectful.

Be safe, be responsible and enjoy the weekend.