Thousands of college students are back on campus for the start of thefall semester and, for many, drinking alcohol is a part of the collegescene. Many students often drink beer after beer at college parties. A UNCdrug and alcohol use survey showed that 37 percent of Chapel students have indulged in binge drinking, drinking more than five drinks at onesitting.
Student organizer Shannon Okerblom says people who don't drink arerevealing themselves to those who might.
Student Ukounwa Kuzi-Orivu says the party is showing students that theydon't have to drink to have fun.
School leaders want students to stop viewing drinking as an integralpart of the college experience, so they've started a "Don't Get Wasted"campaign. Armed with television ads and school programs, they hopeto convince students that drinking is not cool.
Party organizer Don Lus says the pre-semester party allows for studentsto connect with anti-alcohol information and support up front.
The school's football team, cheerleaders and band all took to the stageat the Sunday night party to deliver alcohol-free messages to fellowstudents. There was free food and plenty of music. It was an event thatincluded a little of everythingexceptdrinking.
Classes begin Tuesday. Sunday was the last day students could move intodorms.
Reporter: Wisdom Martin
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
