Assessment of a College Alcohol Alternative Program

Alcohol abuse and binge drinking continue to be problems at colleges nationwide  Up Late at State at Illinois State University provides a unique way to combat this issue by providing safe and fun alternative to alcohol programming for students.  The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an alternative alcohol program, Up Late at State, at a mid-sized, Midwestern college campus.  The study aimed to determine what motivates students to participate in alternative alcohol programming, how programming can be improved, and its impact on alcohol use by program participants.  In addition, the perceived benefits students received by participating in the Up Late at State programming was explored.  A mixed methods study was conducted using quantitative and qualitative sources.  A quantitative survey was sent to participants of the Up Late at State program as an online, anonymous instrument.  Further qualitative research included focus groups and interviews of relevant stakeholders.  The study found that Up Late at State has loyal attendees that always attend the events as an alternative to drinking alcohol. However, there appear to be some key populations missing which present opportunities for program improved to reach those populations. The assessment project has helped to provide valuable information to the University on an important issue affecting students on campus and the community.  This study may guide college health/community-public health educators/student affairs professionals in developing  late night programming opportunities for college students  as a way to reduce alcohol abuse and subsequent issues such as violations, crime, and violence.