Central is one of a growing number of colleges and universities mandating alcohol education for incoming freshmen. While alcohol-related problems and incidents have been on a well-documented rise on America’s campuses, a survey of more than 70,000 students suggests that those who took an alcohol awareness course had significantly fewer personal, health, and academic problems related to alcohol consumption. Nearly three-quarters of those surveyed said they would also recommend a similar program to their peers.

In July, the students and the parents of incoming freshmen received a letter from Vice President for Student Affairs Margaret Y. Toston outlining the AlcoholEDU for College online program. The student-letters stated “CCSU is committed to making a difference in students’ lives.” The communication parents received pointed out that CCSU recognizes that parents are the first line of defense against alcohol misuse and abuse. “That is why,” the letter said, “We are making the AlcoholEDU course available for parents to review and to help you open a dialogue…with your student.”  

About 500 colleges and universities use the AlcoholEDU curriculum, but there are required courses like it at other institutions as well. 

Victoria K. Ginter, coordinator of substance abuse programs at CCSU, describes AlcoholEDU as “a science-based course that aims not to preach but rather to educate students about alcohol and its effects on the mind and body.” She feels that whether or not they drink, AlcoholEDU for College “empowers students to make well-informed decisions and better cope with the drinking behavior of their peers.”

Why were the youngest students targeted? A PowerPoint presentation about the program noted “Research shows incoming freshmen are most ‘at risk’ within the first six weeks of school.” It also pointed out that counseling relating to drug and alcohol issues, as well as a variety of other potential problems, is entirely confidential and free of charge at CCSU’s Counseling and Wellness Center, located in Room 205, Marcus White Hall.  The confidentiality component was stressed as a way of encouraging students with any personal problems, such as stress, depression, eating disorders, relationship concerns, anxiety, and grief, as well as drug and alcohol issues, to reach out for help from the professional counseling staff at Central. Where needed, referrals to off-campus treatment facilities are also possible.

The Counseling and Wellness Center recently hired a new director, Timothy J. Corbitt, MSW, LCSW.

— Bart Fisher

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