Alcohol use and the college campus...some people think the two go hand in hand. But what are the realities about college drinking? Are the myths, media portrayals and glamorization of college drinking accurate?

The truth is some students drink, but not as many college students drink as you might think. It is reported that approximately 69% of college students have 0-5 drinks per week.  According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, zero to two drinks per day for men and zero to one drink per day for women is low risk; having a majority of college drinkers in the 0-5 drinks per week range is a reality that might surprise many.

Incoming freshman face some of the greatest risk and have many alcohol related decisions to make. The first few months of college set the tone for your entire college career. In the first weeks you are to develop a comfort level and figure out how you will do well. It is also the time when some people seem to party the most. People are looking for friends, relationships and simply how to fit in. For some, the combination of the two can create problems.

Students who are out late partying often oversleep and miss classes. The reality is that someone who is hung over is more likely to oversleep or may be too sick to even go to class. People who party several times a week can quickly fall behind on their work which can cause low GPA's or even dropping out of school. There is also evidence that alcohol affects five areas of brain functions essential for learning. These include memory, abstract thinking, problem solving, attention and concentration and perceptions of emotion.

Along with consequences associated with academics, students need to realize that high risk drinking may also put them at risk for assaults, high risk sexual activity, impaired driving and judicial problems.

Remember, you are the most powerful force that can  protect your health and your future. Make decisions that are right for you and support others who choose not to drink. Be aware of local law enforcement's emphasis against underage consumption, campus policies and the reality that it is illegal for persons under age 21 to posses alcohol in all 50 states.

To find out more about how The University of Findlay compares in regards to alcohol use, check out some of the results from the spring 2007 Core Survey (sidebar).

If you or someone you know is struggling with problems related to alcohol use or the alcohol use of a friend or family member, contact Counseling Services at X4526.

Source:  The BACCHUS Network