Caution in College: continued

By: Morgan Bourquin

As BORGs demonstrate, it’s easy for students to go overboard with substance use, but the trend still has some redeeming qualities. Because partygoers make the drinks themselves while they’re sober, they decide how much alcohol they will consume when they go out. And since BORGs are created mostly in gallon jugs of water, the closed lids help prevent the risk of spiked drinks. UNF’s Provenzano said that 13% of all college students (26.4% female and 6.8% male) experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation. Although BORGs are dangerous in terms of the sheer amount of alcohol being consumed, the idea of making your own, covered drinks could help prevent the assaults done through incapacitation. Since each BORG is individually created, students can use them responsibly by not putting a large amount of alcohol in the jug. 

Provenzano said that problematic use often develops as a stress management tool or way to “build community and fit in.” It’s important for students to know that there are resources available to help with almost any issues they have. 

Read the rest of this story in the Senior Issue of The Vertical!