Dry Campus Research Paper

As a result of the negative consequences associated with drinking alcohol, universities across the nation have enacted a policy banning the consumption, possession, and distribution of alcohol on campus, regardless of age or the owner’s intention to consume it elsewhere. The purpose is not only to limit underage drinking, but also drinking and driving, binge-drinking, etc.
In theory, the “Dry Campus” policy appears practicable; however, it does not (fully) eradicate the abuse of alcohol. In fact, in some instances, the ban (arguably/ironically) promotes excessive/unhealthy drinking and driving under the influence. Thus, the question is raised: could Pepperdine’s “Dry Campus” policy potentially cause more harm than good? In a recent poll of …show more content…
“It shields you from the social world and makes you more susceptible to excessive drinking when you do decide to drink,” explains Filippo Margheritini, an international student from Italy. “The prohibition on alcohol is…not helpful at all. [Not only] is it more dangerous because people are going to do it anyways and not report it, but for those who don’t start drinking until age twenty-one, they won’t know how to handle themselves—and they’ll go overboard because they won’t know how to handle themselves.” For students ages twenty-one and older, Pepperdine’s dry campus policy is a limitation (upon legal rights/independence.) While they are legally allowed to drink, strict disciplinary actions occur if caught in violation of the policy; thus resorting in suspension, expulsion, revoked study abroad opportunities, or rehabilitation …show more content…
In today’s incredibly litigious society, administration avoids potential law-suits and appeals to donors/sponsors. It is strategic, a selling point. “It’ll convince your parents to let you come to school in Malibu,” argues Kennedie McDermott, a first-year student, “They’re probably more willing to invest in a safer, more wholly community.” According to Robert Scholz, Pepperdine students on average drink lower quantities of alcohol and less often than those at other colleges due to consistent enforcement and personal attention. “The dry campus policy is a clear signal that we are not a party school…Most students come to Pepperdine because they don’t want the party-school experience and therefore, having a dry campus fits their expectation of college life.” Generally speaking, students are informed/made aware of Pepperdine’s alcohol policies prior to admittance or acceptance. They know coming in what is expected and want to discourage illegal and unhealthful