Peer Educators
The “CHOICES” Peer Education group was created in August 2002 as an answer to the increasing drinking problems among student athletes. Under a grant awarded from the NCAA “CHOICES” program, the student organization was developed as a means to both recruit and educate student athletes on campus. As the group has increased in both number and presence on campus, the peer educators have incorporated a broader focus to include campus-wide education.
EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS
The peer educators host a variety of educational presentations every semester. The topics of focus include Alcohol Awareness, Tobacco Prevention, Mental Health Wellness, Safer Sex, and Violence Prevention. Most recently, as student interest has increased, “CHOICES” has added fitness, nutrition and sleep to their programming efforts as well. Many of the programs are offered in conjunction with other national awareness weeks, however, the peer educators are often asked by faculty to serve as guest speakers or are incorporated into residence hall meetings. One very important goal of our group is to make sure the presentations are exciting, innovative and fun.
ALTERNATIVE SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Research has indicated that a large number of college students report engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as drinking because, “There’s nothing else to do”. Our members attempt to provide alternative, non-alcoholic activities for students to take part in. In the past, “CHOICES” Peer Educators have hosted spades tournaments, tailgating cook-outs, up-all-night dance parties, and gaming contests. We are always looking for new ways to get students involved.
AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS
“CHOICES” is affiliated with the BACCHUS Peer Education Network and as such, participates in several national campaigns. In October, we are involved with” National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week” and host “Safe Spring Break” during March. We also participate in “Sexual Responsibilities Week”, “The Great American Smokeout”, and “Threw with Chew” weeks. Our peer educators have created numerous interactive and unique programs over the past years awarding them both regional and national attention. “CHOICES” has had 3 students selected as “Outstanding Peer Educators”, the group has received “Best Safe Spring Break” programming award, “Outstanding Program” and “Outstanding Affiliate” two separate times.
BECOMING A MEMBER
“CHOICES” Peer Educators are student leaders that have been trained and certified nationally through the BACCHUS Network Peer Education Certification Program. College students interested in becoming a certified peer educator must enroll in University 100-Peer Education class. This class offers 3 college credit hours and may be used as an elective regardless of your major. Once certified, the student will deliver formal educational presentations in a variety of settings including academic classrooms, athletic team meetings, campus organizational meetings, new student orientations and residence hall workshops. In addition, they may also have the opportunity to receive additional training and present programs at other venues including regional and national conferences.