My nephew is heading to college today (is probably already there). The entire day I’ve been trying not to tear up because:

1. He has grown up way too fast
2. Kristine isn’t here to join in this memorable day

There is also an underlying reason for my tears. College is known for its binge drinking problem. Earlier this month, we posted an infographic about the drinking problems in colleges and universities.   It showed that 599,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are unintentionally injured under the influence of alcohol.  Of those, 1,700 of them die from alcohol-related injuries.

I hope that my nephew doesn’t become part of these statistics.  His aunt’s death due to alcohol should make him realize that he should drink responsibly or not drink at all.  There are so many ways to have a good time than to get intoxicated to the point that people are carrying you out and/or death.

His future is to excel in college so that he can set an example to his younger siblings and cousins who look up to him.  By not letting alcohol overpower him, he will teach them that you can have fun without going overboard consuming tons of alcohol.

I will share with him recent statistics from the Center for Disease Control that estimates that about 90 percent of all teenage alcohol consumption occur in the form of binge drinking.  I would have him read all the stories from people who have suffered from alcohol poisoning or have lost loved ones do to it.

Here is to wishing all kids entering colleges and universities around the country a great 4-year journey. You can still have tons of fun without binge drinking.

To my nephew, I love you and know you will do great!

Love, your aunt