I am also a college student and before my surgery I would drink on the weekends. I was banded two weeks from tomorrow, and on Friday night I had about a half of a water bottle of wine. Probably not a decision endorsed by doctors, but I had no problems. And I didn't get drunker any faster than I did before. Although, granted, I spread that drink over about three hours. I wouldn't want to start drinking beer or anything though so soon after surgery. I feel like the carbonation would hurt.