Wisdom teeth removal can be really different for everyone. I had mine removed a few years ago, and I didn't go through the, "put you to sleep" route, but my surgeon put me in "twilight" where I was still sort of awake, but dopey. So, I was awake during my surgery and then easily snapped back out of the dopey state a few minutes after all of my widom teeth were removed.
I didn't develop dry sockets, but I know they're very common. I also recall that there was quite a bit of pain, and the pain medication - I believe it was vicodin - just served to help me sleep and relax. If you do need your prescription pain medication, take it with a full belly. That always helped keep me from getting sick.
Oh. Also, and this is pretty unpleasant, but if you're feeling constipated at all and need to take your pain medication, get some colace. The medication will bind you up even worse.
I had my surgery done the Monday of spring break my junior year in college, and was back on campus by Saturday. My mouth was still a little sore, and I was still pretty much living on soup and mashed potatoes, but it didn't take long to feel completely better.
I hope your surgery goes well!