Hello Students of UWindsor!
First, let me take this opportunity to formally introduce myself to you. My name is Molly
Harper and I am the 2014/2015 Substance Education Coordinator at the University of Windsor. I
am currently in my fourth year as a BA[H] Criminology student. This past academic year I spent
two semesters on exchange in Southampton, England which was one of the best times of my life.
The previous year I was a Resident Assistant in MacDonald Hall. This year, I will be working
throughout the academic year on a variety of projects and promoting the “Don’t Be That
Guy/Don’t Be That Girl” educational campaign. This program has been running for a few years now
to help educate students across campus on the financial, physical, legal and social repercussions of
drinking too much alcohol. The team I am working with and I want to provide and suggest
alternatives for students who are underage or prefer not to drink. As well, this year, I have
successfully collaborated with the Drink Smart campaign to provide even better programs for
students both on and off campus!
Our Substance Education Team consists of two student nurses and myself. This semester, Megz and Mallory have played
a key role in assisting in the planning, organizing, and running of various events. One of my personal goals is to take a more active
role in the residence community since those are the students who are here on campus nearly 24/7 throughout the academic year. I
hope to provide any resources needed in relation to substance
education around campus. As well, I hope to work to provide fun,
innovative, and educational substance programs for all students.
The main message we are promoting is that when students choose
to engage in substance use, they are educated to know the
effects it could potentially have on their bodies, academics, social
life, and mental functioning. We want students to make
responsible choices!
New this year is the name of the position I hold –
Substance Education Coordinator. This is now not only inclusive of
alcohol but drugs as well. Drugs, both hard and soft, are very much
alive and active on campus as they are off campus. Students may start to experiment with these substances despite them being
illegal. In regards to drugs, the team has a clear message – know the effects of what you are putting in
your body and the potential implications this could have, not only on your health but the many other
aspects of your life as a student. Breaking the law is never a cool thing to do.
So, you have probably seen the team around
campus running various events already throughout the
semester such as “So, You Want to Party Like A Canadian,
Eh?” and “What is Normal?” In case you missed those fun
events, we have lots more planned for the remainder of the
year! During the month of November, we will be playing The
Ultimate Drinking Game throughout the residence buildings! As well, the student
th
nurses will be organizing Addictions Day on November 19 10:00am-2:00pm in the
th
st
CAW Commons in support of Addiction’s Awareness week November 17 -21 , 2014.
Addictions come in all different types and this fair will allow you to learn about various
resources, information, and facts about the many addictions people could potentially be
faced with. You don’t want to miss out – there will be fun, games, and goodies!
Our theme this year is the Red Solo Cup! Did you know those lines along the side
are actually for measurement? They indicate the proper ounces of liquor, wine and beer!
Cool, eh? So contrary to popular belief, it is not how full you can make the glass without it
overflowing! Part of drinking responsibly includes knowing things like this.
There are several Drink Smart Tips you should know before heading to a party, club,
or bar.

By making sure you drink in moderation, you can control exactly when you get to
the point where you know when enough is enough. No one knows your body better
than you. When it starts giving you signs that you should maybe slow down – it is
best to listen. After all, the best nights out are the ones you remember.

You need to be aware when you are out. How much alcohol is in the drinks you had? How many drinks have you even
had? Who gave you those drinks? You should never accept drinks from strangers. Always cover your drinks and never
leave them unattended. There are dangerous people out there and you need to look out for yourself. Anything can happen.
Stay alert of your surroundings and have a plan in case something were to happen.

Space out your drinks. It is best to have a glass of water between
each drink. The ratio of 1 to 1 is best! Water keeps you hydrated and
keeps your hands occupied when your actual drink is empty. Plus it
is cheaper!

Always eat before you drink. By this, I mean eat a meal and more
than just a bag of chips.

Always have a plan. And a back up plan. Know how you are getting
to your destination and how you are getting home. It is best to stick
to the buddy system. That is what friends are for.

Remember to never drink and drive – call a friend, call a cab or take
public transportation. Your life is too important to risk losing.
Being safe and smart could save a friend’s life or even your own. After all, no
one wants to be that guy or that girl!
Lastly, make sure you follow the Substance Education Team on Twitter (@UWindsorSAEC), check out our website
(www.uwindsor.ca/responsibledrinking) and like our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/windsor.dbtg). Here you can stay up to
date on events and access a variety of resources! Should you want to get involved by volunteering, want to learn more, need
resources or referrals, or just want to chat – do send an email or pop by the office during the semester hours (Mondays 1:00pm4:00pm, Tuesdays 10:30am-12:30pm, Wednesdays 10:00am-2:00pm, Thursdays 4:00pm-6:00pm) or by appointment.
Have a great rest of the semester and year Lancers! We look forward to seeing you at
events to come!
Cheers,
Molly Harper
Substance Education Coordinator 2014/15
rd
Rm. 303 West Leddy Library – 3 Floor
[email protected]
519-253-3000 ext. 4885