University Encourages Students to Drink on Campus; University of Hawaii’s Commencement Goes Virtual

Concerns are being raised from a new study over the increased risk of mixing alcohol and energy drinks. The study conducted at North Kentucky University showed that high levels of caffeine masked the effects of alcohol, allowing people to feel less impaired then they really are. The concern is that because people feel less impaired, they are more likely to drink more, drive, or swim. An estimated 30 to 50 percent of teenagers and young adults in the United States consume energy drinks. [680 News]

The College of Holy Cross is addressing the issue of rowdy students drinking off campus by encouraging students to drink on campus. The Massachusetts college has extended the hours of its on-campus pub and has begun to allow students under 21 inside. Students who are not 21 are given different colored wristbands to ensure that they are not served alcohol. The city and college will continue to monitor the situation but state the experiment has been a success thus far. [Telegram]

Oregon legislators are considering a bill to allow state universities to waive tuition and fees for foster children. Although both parties understand the issue, there is opposition because the bill could cost $1 million. The bill was to be put to a vote last week in the State House until it was stopped and passed over to the budget committee. One opponent of the budget is Republican Representative Julie Parrish. She claims she was once homeless at 19, living out of her car, but was able to work and put herself through school. [Oregon Live]

A university is using the Internet for more than just online classes this semester. The University of Hawaii is planning an online graduation ceremony with a virtual commencement address and virtual diplomas for those students participating. Held on May 6, the graduation will take place in the virtual world of Second Life at a replica of the university’s Diamond Head Amphitheatre. According to education technology professor Peter Leong, the ceremony is for all students who study on campus as well as online. [The Republic]

Ashley R. Hunter is an editorial intern for Campus Progress.

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