I appreciated the opportunity to work intimately with the community to change the party culture here at UCSB. In contrast to other education methods, I truly believe that harm reduction is the most effective approach with college students in particular in order to maintain that the community learns how to party safely and figure out their personal balance if they choose to engage with alcohol or other drugs. The student intern team is a group of highly-motivated, energetic, and engaged people who are all dedicated to minimizing the stigma of safe partying tactics, such as pacing drinks, alternating alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and staying hydrated. The Alcohol and Drug Program creates a work environment that is conducive to education, harm reduction, counseling, and recovery services should a student want those services. This position has allowed me to combine my real-world life experiences with scientific studies about drug and alcohol use in order to change the dialogue about the UCSB party dynamic in a positive way that changes the discourse towards one that celebrates our university's rich research prowess and dedication to academic excellence.
What I wish was different
I wish that this position was able to take on a research component in order to more accurately gauge current partying practices in order to create the most effective campaigns that champion party safety. I think that this could be done with the use of focus groups, surveys, and informal informational interviews with the community directly.
Advice
I encourage students who are interested in applying for this position to really be honest and open with their experiences and with one another. It is through one another that the best ideas and campaigns come to fruition.
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One person found this helpful
LOTP Peer Intern
January 2019 • Isla Vista, CA
What I liked
Life of the party was the perfect opportunity for me to work on my communication skills. I love the constant interaction that we have with the community in Isla Vista as we deliver our wonderful message of safe partying. In addition, this internship has allowed me to create a strong network with numerous professionals that will benefit me as I apply to medical schools in the future.
What I wish was different
My experience with Life of the Party has been amazing and I don't see how this internship could possibly need to improve. The message we deliver is great, the working atmosphere is excellent, and the professionals I got to interact with have shaped my life in a positive way.
Advice
I think this internship is perfect for those who are not afraid to meet new people and those who can speak in front a big audience.
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One person found this helpful
LOTP Peer Intern
October 2018 • Goleta, CA
What I liked
Enjoyed working with my fellow Peer Interns. Events were a blast working alongside them. The whole team was welcoming and I am grateful for this experience. Syreeta, Jackie, and the counselors were a joy to work with and see in the office every day. I loved being involved in the community and spreading the word on how to party safely.
What I wish was different
Wish I worked here last year as well. I am graduating and will miss the team.
Advice
Very educational and fun opportunity. Highly recommend this internship, it has taught me so much and made my last year here at UCSB the best!
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Head Intern ( prevention work, social media marketing, e-mails,
August 2016 • Isla Vista, CA
What I liked
I am challenged and have a meaningfull message working for this program.
What I wish was different
That we had more funding. We have a limited budget.
Advice
Be creative and think outside the box so that the events are succesful.
This great opportunity has given me such a meaningful experience as a student. I have been challenged in many aspects of this field and I love being able to create a safer Isla Vista and student community.
What I wish was different
Funding for this internship is tight but it is worth while! I didn't get to put on as many events as I wanted too!
Advice
Be deligent with your events and tabling opportunities that can be made with other organizations.
