REA0017/10459
14 February 2013
“Curbing College Drinking…”
The consequences of college binge drinking are more destructive and life- changing than students realize. In the article “Curbing College Drinking Starts with a Change in Attitude,” by Sara Fritz, published in Pearson's The Effective Reader in 2011, the author explains the problems resulting from excessive drinking on college campuses. Due to the seriousness of drinking, colleges find, it will take the combined effort of parents, students, and college staff to accomplish the best end result. Fritz begins her article exploring the issues that arise within college campuses when college students drink in excess. With much time invested as a college trustee and through many long discussions with students, Fritz is discouraged to discover that students arent convinced of the severity stating “our parents drank” making it seem as just a stage that one goes through. It doesn't stop there...as scientists study the problem, they believe the entire student population must be changed. Also, they believe the college enviroment must be changed in order to revolutionize at risk drinkers. Although Fritz appreciates the efforts of the scientists and commends them on their work, the findings were inconclusive. Fritz provides many facts and opinions in her attempt to persuade the readers of the severity of drinking on college campuses and ways to solve the growing issue. She expresses her disgust when she sarcastically states "What a concept!” Clearly frustrated, the reader can then be convinced that its been a long standing battle within the college and within her career. With little to no progress, Fritz remains bitter. After reading this article, I agree that college drinking is a serious issue. Fritz offered many good ideas for finding a solution to the problem. Through her personal experiences as a college trustee, she has witnessed, first hand, the tragic effects of college