February 1, 2005

Boise State Uses Birthday Cards To Educate Students On Dangers Of Drinking Irresponsibly

Boise State University students turning 21 years old will soon receive a birthday card in the mail aimed at helping them celebrate that milestone more responsibly.   Many students view high-risk drinking as a rite of passage during their college years, with their 21st birthday being a particularly dangerous event. News accounts each year tell of students who die from alcohol poisoning from excessive drinking, such as drinking 21 shots on their 21st  birthday.  Unfortunately, students often do not realize the dangers of consuming large quantities of alcohol.  Nationally, an average of 27 college students die every week —1,400 students each year — from an alcohol-related incident.    Research from Michigan State University shows that the 21st Birthday Card program, which involves mailing students a celebratory birthday card congratulating them on their special milestone, is very effective. The card reminds them that if they do decide to drink alcohol, there are important tips to drinking responsibly and staying safe.   In order to evaluate the program’s effectiveness, a month after their birthday students will be encouraged to fill out a questionnaire related to the effectiveness of the information provided on the card. Students at several universities, including Michigan State, Kansas State, the University of Georgia and the University of Delaware, have reported that this program effectively provided them with healthy tips for celebrating more responsibly, which resonated with them throughout their birthday activities.   For more information on the Birthday Card program, contact Christina Berg at (208) 426-2752.   -30-   Contact: Christina Berg, Health, Wellness and Counseling Services, (208) 426-2752                                                               Media Contact: Kathleen Craven, University Relations, (208) 426-3275, kcraven@boisestate.edu