Most of us have been exposed to media images of drunk, oversexed students partying 24/7 during spring break. As you plan your own spring break, consider how the alcohol industry markets heavily to college students. How do these images match up with what you want for yourself?

At the Tang Center, we see students returning from spring break with STDs and unplanned pregnancies. Many students point to unsafe sex that was influenced by their alcohol use.

Also, consider the campus pressure to spend the entire "break" studying. Professors tell you that the exams after spring break will be more rigorous, and for classes with a curve, you may worry that others will "out-study" you. Does a week without classes mean that you should spend all that extra time studying?

More and more students finish spring break more tired than when they started, because they devoted the entire break to schoolwork without a chance to relax.


We encourage you to...

  • Recharge your batteries! Coming back from spring break refreshed will help you be a more successful student the rest of the semester. It's true - you can think better, learn more easily, and be more productive when you're rested. If you're staying around during break, don't spend the whole time cooped up in your room studying. Call an old friend to hang out, try a new hobby, or volunteer in the community for a day.
  • Be prepared and plan ahead. If you drink, think about your limits before you start. If sexual activity is a possibility, get safer sex supplies and information before you act. Have a safety plan for travel emergencies (e.g. what would you do if your car breaks down on a roadtrip? How would you handle a severe illness in another country?)
  • Stick together: there is safety in numbers. Hike and swim outdoors in groups (and don't forget to use sunscreen, SPF 15+). Attend parties and clubs with friends and have a plan to keep an eye on each other.
  • Trust your feelings, instincts, and gut reactions about situations. Be assertive about your limits around sexual activity and alcohol and other drug use. Also, don't force somebody else to do things that make them uncomfortable.

Resources at the Tang Center
 Also see: Tang Center hours for Spring Break

Appointments:

  • General medical visits, including STD and pregnancy tests
  • Clinical Health Educators (stress management, insomnia, sexuality concerns, etc.)
  • Sexual Health Peer Educators (not available during the week of spring break)
    (510) 642-2000

Advice Line & After-Hours Assistance
 (510) 643-7197

Social Services
 Counseling about alcohol and other drugs, pregnancy options, sexual assault, and other topics
(510) 642-6074

Counseling & Psychological Services
 General counseling on topics such as academic concerns, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more
(510) 642-9494

Self-Care Resource Center
 Books, video and audio tapes, and internet access
Drop in Monday - Friday 8-12 and 1-5
(510) 642-7202