College is a major life transition, filled with independence, new friendships, academic challenges, and choices that can shape your future. One of the most important things you can do as you prepare for this next chapter is to educate yourself and plan ahead. This module was designed to help you do just that.

We’ve covered a lot: from understanding the real risks of binge drinking to exploring how alcohol use can affect your academics, your health, your relationships, and your safety. We’ve also looked at strategies for making informed choices, whether that means setting limits, saying no, looking out for a friend, or choosing not to drink at all.

Remember, this isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being prepared. That means knowing your school’s policies, recognizing the signs of alcohol poisoning, understanding the importance of consent, and having a plan for how you’ll respond to peer pressure or stress without relying on alcohol. It’s also about knowing where to go for help, whether it’s a campus counselor, a support group, or a trusted friend or mentor.

You don’t have to figure everything out on day one, but the more tools you have, the more confident and grounded you’ll feel. College is full of opportunities for growth, leadership, and fun – none of which require alcohol or other drugs to be meaningful or memorable.

This module was designed to help you feel more confident and prepared when it comes to navigating alcohol and other substance use in college.

Here’s a quick recap of what we covered:

Be Prepared

Start strong by learning what to expect. Preparation isn’t just about packing or picking classes—it’s about mentally and emotionally gearing up for a big transition. We encouraged you to attend orientation events, ask questions, research your campus, and talk openly with people you trust about your hopes and concerns. The more prepared you are, the more empowered you’ll feel when faced with new social or academic challenges.

Be Proactive

Knowledge is power. We explored the very real consequences of alcohol misuse—from health risks and academic setbacks to legal trouble and safety concerns, including sexual assault. Understanding the facts helps you make informed choices before you’re in a high-pressure situation. You also learned how to recognize risky behaviors, understand your limits, and take steps to protect both yourself and your peers.

Be Purposeful

The decisions you make early in college set the tone for your experience. We encouraged you to seek out community, stay connected to your values, and be intentional with your time. Whether it’s joining a club, accessing mental health resources, or finding new ways to cope with stress, staying grounded helps you thrive without needing to rely on alcohol. We also touched on bystander intervention, how to support friends, and the importance of knowing your school’s policies and campus support systems.

There’s no right way to do college

There’s no one “right” way to do college, but there are smart ways to stay safe, healthy, and true to yourself. Whether you choose to drink or not, your awareness and preparation matter. Surround yourself with people who respect your choices, seek out resources when you need them, and remember that asking for help is a strength.

You’re not expected to have it all figured out—but now, you’re equipped with the tools to move forward with confidence. You’ve got this.

Take the Quiz

This quick quiz is not graded. It’s just for you to check your understanding and see what you’re taking away from the module. Think about your answers. If there are things you’re unsure of, you can always go back through the module or explore the external resources linked throughout.

Drug Awareness Quiz:

Alcohol Awareness Quiz :