Wellness Center hosts ‘Whiskey Business’, safety tips for spring breakers

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

Leslie Ovalle/ Staff Writer

leslie.ovalle@fiusm.com

For Jimmy Egas, there is always something to do in Miami.

According to U.S News and World Report, Miami Beach ranks number one on their “Best Spring Break Destination” list because of its perfect-for-tanning beaches and night-life.

Egas, a freshman majoring in business administration and marketing, agree with this ranking.

“Not only do you have the beach, but [you have] nonstop partying going around,” he said. “Aside from parties there is a lot of culture and the city is beautiful.”

While the beaches and clubs make it one of the best spots, Miami has also been ranked as the tenth most dangerous spring break destinations by NY Daily News. On this list, Florida has the most cities — from Miami, Orlando, Daytona Beach, Panama City to West Palm Beach.

Because of this, the University’s Wellness Center will be hosting an event where students can learn about staying safe during Spring Break.

The Wellness Center, Counseling and Psychological Services and the Victim Empowerment Program are partnering to educate students on their accessibility and services.

“Students can learn about healthy behaviors that will help them to have a healthier Spring Break,” said Stephanie Caceres, senior health educator of University Health Services.

Egas believes that an event like this one makes a lot of sense.

“That’s why Spring Break is before Ultra Music Festival, because can you imagine the madness?”  Egas said.

According to thelisttv.com, more than 1.5 million students will party during Spring Break and, while the average college student has about six drinks per week, during Spring Break this average goes up to ten drinks per day.

The event will provide information about Student Health Services, including information about the services available to students — counseling, dietitian services, stress management, massage therapy and more.

Educational topics like safe alcohol consumption, sexual health, drug use/abuse, consent and general safety will also be addressed.

“These are all topics that are important to remember during Spring Break,” Caceres said.

The event will also have “freebies,” along with free sandwiches and other things provided by invited vendors, according to Caceres.

It will be held on March 2 at 11 a.m. at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus in the Graham Center.

“I love Public Health, and educating students about safe behavior during Spring Break makes me feel like I am making a difference,” Caceres said.