Hey man, congrats. I started drinking in college, and to be honest I thought the same thing as you for a long time. To me, drinking is a way socializing. Granted, I'm fully aware I'm destroying my liver at the same time. Unfortunately in my line of work I feel it would be very difficult not to drink and still earn the respect of my boss and those above me (as pathetic as that may sound). Alcohol to me can be delicious (such as a glass of nice wine, or a well made cocktail), although often it is that excellent taste that causes me to drink too much. When I first started college I would literally puke at the smell of beer for no other reason than it disgusted me. Now others might refer to me as a beer connoisseur.
I couldn't honestly say I would be happier without it. It has lead to the best relationships of my life (which are not alcohol dependent) for the simple reason that I was more willing to put myself out in an otherwise uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation. I suppose that was what prompted me to become an alcohol educator. In many ways alcohol can be very useful, while at the same time it can be deadly. Learning to control yourself and use in moderation is the only possible way that alcohol can be beneficial.
I suppose at the end of my terribly written flow of thoughts, I can only say props. Please keep it up, and congratulations. I hope you have a wonderful life.