You don't have to indulge in keg parties to experience a fun-filled college experience!

"Party Animal" Doesn't Have to Equal to "Campus Drunk!"
By Lynda Kessler
January 2002

The CollegeBound Network NewsClick -- Imagine belonging to a secret society on campus that not even your parents or roommates know you're a part of? Well, if you're one of 17 students who wears masks and costumes in the name of your group's mission at Baldwin-Wallace College (BWC), Berea, OH, it's something like that. Those students can't disclose how they are chosen, but they can share the purpose of their group, the Party Patrol People (PPP).

"This unique program has created excitement on campus and provided an outlet for Saturday night fun for students," explains Kim McBriarty, director of student activities and one of PPP's founders. "It was started through a brainstorming session I had with the dean of students/vice president of student affairs. We were discussing how we could provide weekend alcohol alternatives."

McBriarty developed the PPP last semester working with a student intern. Since its inception, the group has held three events, including an interactive drive-in movie, a campus version of Survivor, and a Random Acts of Kindness Week -- all of which were a huge hit among BWC students.

And how could they not be?! PPP's Survivor activities had eight students battling it out in a pie-eating contest and searching a pool of oil for vegetables. At the well-attended event, the group also hosted games and contests that enlisted audience participation. Prizes included DVD players, Best Buy gift certificates, computer scanners and printers, and $500 in cash. Then, during the Random Acts of Kindness Week, residence halls received a 'party-in-a-box' gift pack filled with movies, popcorn, board games, and other party picks.

McBriarty encourages other campuses to try these anti-alcohol tactics as an alternative to destructive behavior. "College students at other schools should find the office or organization on their campus which provides such services and get involved," she urges. "It's great to know [that] there are other things to do on campus [besides] drinking."