Student Affairs

of acceptance and inclusion for all students while providing care, support and advocacy for the

entire Clemson community. For issues of concern related to academic behavior, emotional health,

finances, personal wellness, adjustment or other concerns, you may seek support for your student

by completing an online CARE report at

or by

calling 864-656-0935. A staff member will follow up with the student to offer resources and support.

If it is an emergency, call 911.

Alcohol/Drug Use

As students arrive on campus, it’s a time of new experiences, new friendships and making memories.

For some, this can also be a time of facing challenges pertaining to pressures associated with alcohol

and drug use. According to research summarized in a College Task Force report to the National

Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the consequences of excessive drinking by a

college student are more significant, more destructive and more costly than many families realize.

Alcohol and drug use can be associated with negative consequences such as injury, sexual assaults,

mental health concerns, substance dependence, automobile accidents, police involvement and

poor academic performance. Research also shows families can have a significant influence on their

student’s alcohol decisions. We encourage you to engage your student in regular, open conversations

about alcohol and other drug use.

The first six weeks of the semester are particularly significant for new students’ success. Families can

use this important time to help prepare their students by talking with them about the consequences

of high-risk drinking and other drug use. Families can inquire about campus alcohol policies, stay

in communication with their students and ask questions about roommates and weekend activities.

Discuss the penalties for underage drinking as well as how alcohol use can be related to sexual

assault, violence and poor academic performance. It’s important to not only talk to them prior to

their arrival on campus, but also continue after they have moved in.

Clemson is committed to maintaining an environment that is healthy, safe and attractive for

all members of the community. Students who choose to use alcohol assume a responsibility to

comply with South Carolina laws and university policies. Families and students should familiarize

themselves with Clemson’s policies and risk-reduction strategies related to alcohol and other drugs.

Clemson utilizes a layered approach to alcohol and drugs, which includes prevention, education,

intervention and treatment. Please visit Clemson’s alcohol and other drugs informational website,

which contains resources for students and families at

In the event that your student begins to engage in problematic behavior, Assessment, Consequences,

Training and Transitions (ACTT), the substance abuse program through Counseling and

Psychological Services, can provide appropriate assistance. Services include psychoeducational

groups for alcohol misuse and therapy groups for marijuana use and other addictions. In addition,

students may need to participate in individual therapy to address alcohol and other drug use. The

aim is to help students increase self understanding and assist them with moving toward a healthy