Alcohol Awareness Week
KATIE LANGE | CONTRIBUTOR | THE USD VISTA
Something to look out for on campus this week are events surrounding National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week. There will be numerous sponsored programs to make students aware of the resources they have while helping to educate students on the effects of alcohol. With Halloween weekend coming up quickly, it is important for students to be aware of the issues associated with binge drinking. This week, USD offers many resources that support a safe and fun environment in an educational manner surrounding alcohol use.
This past Tuesday, Oct. 27, there was a RADD Cash-Cab contest from 12-2 p.m. in front of the UC’s. Students had the opportunity to showcase their trivia skills with the chance to win gift cards and prizes. The purpose of the RADD Cash-Cab contest is to educate students on the dangers of drinking and driving, DUI arrests, and to help prevent deaths and injuries from alcohol-related accidents.
Also on Tuesday, the UC Forums offered quick 15 minute chats with Wellness Professionals to help students better understand anxiety, depression, and alcohol consumption. The event featured free burritos and churros, while educating attendees on stress, sleep, anxiety, and self-care. Many of these events were held to assist students in their daily lives and to help students potentially cope with personal instability.
Junior Keely Palla spoke about her feelings regarding National Collegiate Awareness week and the efforts by USD to raise awareness surrounding the issue.
“So many issues in today’s world involve the misuse of alcohol that can easily be prevented or helped,” Palla said. “I think that the more we can do to bring about a positive cultural change surrounding the use of alcohol is a step in the right direction.”
National Collegiate Awareness Week (NCAAW) will be celebrated on different college campuses nationwide in order to promote awareness regarding the substance, abusive practices, and ways to take preventative measures.
Senior Bryan Ruzich expressed his feelings on the events this week and his personal experience with on campus resources.
“I think it is important to educate everyone on campus about the resources available,” Ruzich said. “I know, during my Freshman year I was able to utilize the college cab program which provides a flat-fee service to students who are unable to drive, may feel uncomfortable, or simply don’t have a ride. Even though I don’t think alcoholism is a big problem at USD, I think it’s nice for students to know they have resources.”
On Thursday, Oct. 29 at 12:15 p.m. in Serra Hall, Room 209 there will be another NCAAW event which is an hour long QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training session. It will be a chance for students to learn how to spot early warning signs of suicide, how to begin a conversation with someone who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, and how make a referral to the counseling center. Lunch will also be provided.
Be sure to check out the many events on campus following Alcohol Awareness put on by wellness services such as the Center for Health and Wellness Promotion and the Torero Program Board. It is important to educate yourself and your peers about safe alcohol practices.