AlcoholEdu for College Students

Contrary to popular belief, drinking and smoking in college is not a given. The stereotype of heavy drinking in college is not the reality for most UC Santa Cruz students, however based on surveys many students believe the stereotype to be true. Many students don't drink or use cannabis at all.

Based on the Spring 2021 National College Health Assessment survey of our campus which surveyed all undergraduate students:

• • 26.7% of UCSC students (including students over 21) have never used alcohol. 
  • 19.7% of UCSC students who chose to drink reported one or more negative outcomes due to drinking alcohol. 
  • 43.6% of UCSC students have never used cannabis.
    

Many students chose not to use alcohol or use cannabis so why are we requiring all incoming students take AlcoholEdu?

Of the 2018 incoming class:

• 51% reported they were not previously familiar with any of the topics presented in the seven training modules.
• 95% reported the AlcoholEdu program was helpful in providing information regarding identifying alcohol poisoning.
• 94% reported the AlcoholEdu program was helpful in understanding UC Santa Cruz's policies and resources.  
• 87% reported AlcoholEdu prepared them to make responsible decisions about drinking.
• 86% reported AlcoholEdu prepared them to prevent an alcohol overdose.
• 93% reported AlcoholEdu was helpful for learning how how to set limits around drug use.
• Students in 2021 reported 11.2% had driven after consuming alcohol within the previous 30 days and 29.5% of students reported using cannabis within 6 hours of driving. The most likely person to intervene in these situations to stop someone driving while intoxicated is a peer. We hope the skills you learn will help you be the person who intervenes.

Understanding what alcohol does to your body and the risks associated with alcohol use can help you in many ways:

• You can make a more informed decision about whether or not to drink.
• You can recognize the warning signs of dangerous intoxication and call Emergency Medical Services (911) for a friend.
• You can reduce the risks associated with using alcohol, including injury, unwanted sex, and being a victim of crime.
• If you choose to drink, you can make safer decisions about drinking.
• You can get help for yourself or for a friend.

Additional Information Regarding Related University Policies

• Dean of Students - Our mission is to incorporate a student centered approach in all of the programs, services, and student experiences that we provide.
• Student Conduct and Community Standards - Report incidents of misconduct.
• Responsible Action Plan - Sometimes known as an amnesty policy.

Pathways to Getting Help

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) - At CAPS we have one goal, which is to meet the mental health needs of UCSC students.

• The COVE - The Cove is a place where “Slugs for Health and Growth” (both students and guests) can meet other campus members, learn more about recovery, simply hang out in a supportive environment, and participate in fun and educational activities with other sober students. Students that are questioning their relationship to alcohol and other drugs are welcome as well.

• Student Health, Outreach and Promotion (SHOP)  - SHOP supports the mission of Student Health Services by fostering healthier lifestyle choices to reduce health risk factors, improve overall wellness and maintain a productive, active and successful student body.

• Recovery Meetings on Campus - All meetings are open to campus community members.
  
• Meet with an Alcohol and Other Drug Specialist - You can schedule an appointment with Jorge Bru, Alcohol & Other Drug Educator, by filling out the form.

Accessibility

If you are unable to complete the programs due to a disability-related access concern, please email weareslugs@ucsc.edu. We will work to either resolve the barrier or provide an alternative training.