Alcohol Awareness: What Every Student Should Know
Making informed decisions about alcohol is part of staying healthy in college. Get the facts, understand the risks, and learn how to stay safe.
Stay Informed
Make smart choices
What Is a "Standard Drink"?
Not all drinks are created equal. A "standard" drink contains about 14 grams (0.6 oz) of pure alcohol.
12 oz
~5% ABV
355 mL serving
5 oz
~12% ABV
148 mL serving
1.5 oz
~40% ABV
44 mL shot
ABV = Alcohol by Volume. All three examples above contain the same amount of pure alcohol.
Understanding Safe Limits
Knowledge is power when it comes to making informed decisions about alcohol consumption.
Beer vs. Wine vs. Liquor
Understanding the differences can help you make informed choices
| Factor | Beer | Wine | Liquor |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABV Range | 4–6% | 11–15% | 35–50% |
| Serving Size | 12 oz | 5 oz | 1.5 oz |
| Common Usage | Social, casual | Dinner, celebrations | Shots, mixed drinks |
| Risk Level | Lower (per drink) | Moderate | Higher (easy to overconsume) |
Important: Liquor is small in volume but high in potency — it's easy to lose track of intake.
Tips for Safer Drinking
If you choose to drink, these strategies can help reduce risks
Eat First
Food slows alcohol absorption and helps your body process it more safely.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water between alcoholic beverages. Alcohol dehydrates your body.
Pace Yourself
Limit yourself to 1 drink per hour maximum to give your body time to process.
Avoid Mixing
Don't mix alcohol with medications or energy drinks - dangerous interactions can occur.
Know Your Limits
Understand your personal tolerance and respect your friends' limits too.
Plan Ahead
Have a safe way home planned and designate a sober driver or use rideshare.
Do Most Students Actually Drink?
Despite what you might hear, not all college students drink alcohol — and most who do, drink in moderation.
About 40% of college students report drinking heavily in the past two weeks
Nearly 1 in 4 students choose not to drink at all
Many overestimate how much their peers are drinking — it's called "social norm misperception"
Bottom line: You're not alone if you drink moderately, or not at all — and the healthiest choice is always the informed one.
Just Because It's Legal Doesn't Mean It's Safe
Many students feel pressure to drink — but you're not alone if you choose not to. Be smart, stay safe, and look out for each other.
Your health and safety are our priority • Get support when you need it
Need Help? You’re Not Alone
If you or someone you know has had too much to drink, reach out right away. Your campus and national resources are here 24/7.
It’s vital to know your university’s hotlines:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, available 24/7.
SAMHSA Helpline: Substance misuse support, 1-800-662-HELP.
Alcoholics Anonymous: Find meetings at aa.org.
If it’s an emergency, always call 911 or your campus security immediately.