21^st Birthday Card

A 21^st birthday should be fun and safe. Your student’s birthday plans may not even include alcohol. But if you think it may, we encourage you to talk to them about safety and expectations. As parents and family members, you’ve had countless conversations with your ‘Din reinforcing your family values and expectations concerning their health and well-being. Their 21^st birthday is an excellent opportunity for us to partner with you to inform and encourage them to consider protective strategies.

• Pace your drinks to about one alcoholic drink per hour. Slow it down!
• Alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Naturally, water is best.
• Eat a healthy meal before you drink. Snack throughout the evening. Maybe have a big piece of birthday cake.
• Plan a safe way to get home before you take that first sip.
• Don’t accept a drink from a stranger or leave your drink unattended. There might be something in there you weren’t expecting. But remember that alcohol is THE #1 date rape drug.
• Stay in groups, and don’t leave anyone behind. A good friend will keep you from losing control, keep you out of jail, or will call for an ambulance if needed. A really good friend will also get you a present.
• Don’t mix alcohol with prescription, over-the-counter, or illicit drugs.
• Don’t feel pressure to play drinking games or drink more than you’d like. It’s YOUR birthday. DO YOU!!!
• Have no regrets. When in doubt, call 911.

Send a birthday card to your student reminding them to have a fun and safe 21^st birthday!

The birthday card includes a message about smart strategies and an opportunity for you to include a personalized message.

Please submit the form below at least 1 week prior to your student’s birthday so we can mail it to them in time!

Please feel free to contact Furman’s Alcohol/Drug Education Coordinator for information and campus resources.

Stephanie Boyd
Assistant Dean of Students / Coordinator of Alcohol and Drug Education Programs
864-294-2292
stephanie.boyd@furman.edu