I used to never feel like I needed alcohol to socialise or have a good time. But after I started studying 2 degrees, and huge long and late work nights, it was nice to blow off steam, get silly with my girlfriends, and forget about the stresses of the week.

But of course, what goes up, must come…DOWN. My hangovers will last a good 3 days and my energy will be drained for sometimes over a week (which is not surprising after consuming a good half a bottle of rum).

The reason I am joining HSM, is to re-train myself to socialise without alcohol like I used to, to have the energy to push and strive towards a future in marine mammal husbandry, biology, and research, and to save money for a house or a big trip to the U.S.A. I feel that as my journey continues, I will also be able to form strong bonds with my friends and family, and meet other inspiring people that have the same morals and goals as me.

I have realised that in just the 3rd week of doing HSM, I have abundant energy and it is a much more competent way of dealing with stress than a big night on the town. I am able to work 6 days a week, study, and volunteer in seal husbandry without being exhausted, and depressed like I used to be. I am able to save money and buy beautiful clothing pieces (just recently purchased a vintage Gucci bag) and this is just in 3 weeks of having some snugly nights in on the weekends and swapping Vodka Redbull with a Lemonade and a beautiful meal. I really look forward to the next 3 months of nice surprises.

My birthday will however, be a challenge