On September 25, a preventive awareness meeting was held at Dormitory No. 12 of the Belarusian National Technical University for first-year students of the Faculty of Information Technologies and Robotics. The event, organized by representatives of the dormitory’s voluntary public order squad, was held under the motto “A Sober Start Is a Strong Start” and focused on preventing alcohol consumption among young people.
The main topic of the meeting was a conscious and responsible approach to one’s health and future. The speakers noted that the student years are a period when not only professional skills and social connections are formed, but also habits that largely determine a person’s future lifestyle. For this reason, decisions made at a young age can have a significant impact on health, academic performance, career prospects, and personal well-being.
During the discussion, participants considered the effects of alcohol on the body of a young person. Particular attention was paid to brain function, as the brain continues to develop and form neural connections until approximately the age of 25. It was emphasized that alcohol consumption can negatively affect memory, concentration, and the ability to make quick decisions — qualities that are especially important both for successful studies and for future professional activities.
The consequences for physical health were also discussed. Participants were informed about the risks alcohol poses to the liver, cardiovascular system, and immune system. Special attention was also given to its impact on emotional well-being. Using alcohol as a way to relieve stress may, on the contrary, contribute to increased anxiety and a deterioration in psychological well-being.
An important part of the meeting was the discussion of social consequences. The speakers emphasized that thoughtless behavior can affect relationships with loved ones, reputation, academic performance, and future career opportunities. Reduced productivity, missed classes, and a loss of interest in promising projects can become serious obstacles on the path toward professional goals.
Participants also considered the financial aspect of the issue. The presentation noted that part of a young person’s personal budget may be spent on alcohol and related entertainment. The same money could instead be invested in education, professional courses, technology, travel, personal projects, and other opportunities for growth. This approach made it possible to view a healthy lifestyle not only as a matter of prevention, but also as an investment in one’s own future.
One of the most important messages of the meeting was a positive one: sobriety is not a system of prohibitions and restrictions, but a conscious choice in favor of greater opportunities. Sports, creativity, travel, professional achievements, and new experiences can provide vivid emotions while helping a person maintain clarity of thought, energy, and the ability to move confidently toward their goals.
At the end of the meeting, participants concluded that a strong future begins with the decisions a person makes today. A clear mind, a responsible attitude toward one’s health, and the ability to make conscious choices help not only to succeed academically, but also to build strong relationships, grow professionally, and realize one’s potential.
The event became another step toward developing a responsible attitude to health and lifestyle among students of the Faculty of Information Technologies and Robotics. A sober start is an opportunity to begin student life with clear goals, new prospects, and confidence in one’s future.
