In keeping with the mission of Bossier Parish Community College to provide instruction and service to its community, the Division of Student Services has adopted the following mission statement: To maximize student success in achieving a well-rounded education, the Student Services Division coordinates its services with all the other divisions within the College to enhance the educational experiences of the students and to support the mission of Bossier Parish Community College. To achieve this mission, the Division has established the following goals:
- To provide convenient access to appropriate educational opportunities to all.
- To increase student awareness and stimulate participation by students in seminars, programs, organizations, and activities offered on campus and in the community.
- To promote a well-rounded educational experience through participation in extracurricular activities including cheerleading, dance line, and athletic programs.
- To take reasonable steps to provide a healthful, safe, and secure campus community environment.
- To take reasonable steps to provide transparency, accountability, and education concerning domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking for our students, faculty, and staff in accordance with the Campus SaVE Act
- To promote appreciation for and understanding of the cultural, economic, and educational diversities among students, faculty, and staff.
- To expand community outreach efforts to recruit minority, under-represented, and diverse students.
BPCC is committed to the active involvement of students in all phases of College life, providing student services to assist and support students, and providing enrichment of their college experiences. The College has established procedures and policies to regulate student life, organizations, and activities. The responsibility for interpreting and enforcing these policies and procedures lies primarily with the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services and the Student Life Committee. The College regulates the campus activities insofar as these activities relate to the educational or service objectives of the College. Please contact us at studentservices@bpcc.edu for information and assistance about Student Services.
Athletics
Building I, Billy W. Montgomery Gymnasium
Bossier Parish Community College is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association. As an integral part of the institution, the Athletic Department foster’s the College’s mission of instruction and service. BPCC Student athletes compete at the NJCAA Division I level in men’s basketball, baseball, softball and women’s cross country. More information about intercollegiate sports on campus can be found at https://www.bpccathletics.com/landing/index.
Building F-Room 104
The Campus Police Department is responsible for the safety and security of all persons on campus. Campus Police strives to reduce the amount of crime on campus.
Career Services
Building F-Room 246
Students experience a positive atmosphere in which to explore career and employment options. The Office of Career Services seeks to empower students with the skills needed to excel at a four-year university or in entering the job market.
Current students and alumni are assisted in locating employment which is compatible with their job needs and educational objectives. Job opportunities include full-time, part-time, and temporary employment for both on and off campus. The use of electronic applications for students and employers, HANDSHAKE and Skills First Resume Builder enables Career Services to be of greater assistance in the registration and employment process for students, alumni, and employers. On campus job interviews with prospective employees are held throughout the year in addition to the annual Career Fairs held each fall and spring.
The office provides resume and cover letter writing and interview skills workshops. Student may call 318-678-6084 for information and/or to schedule an appointment to talk with Career Services staff. Students are also encouraged to view the Career Services web page under Student Services by visiting https://www.bpcc.edu/career-services.
Cavalier Care Center
Building F-Room 159
The Cavalier Care Center centralizes services for students to address insecurities that can be barriers to success. The Cavalier Care Center proudly provides help with applying for S.N.A.P., WIC, Medicaid, and EITC, and houses a Food Pantry, a Career Closet, a Cap and Gown Corner, a calculator Program and a Chromebook Loan Program as well as offering information on affordable housing, childcare and more to BPCC students and the Community. For more information about the Cavalier Care Center, please visit the website at https://www.bpcc.edu/community/cavalier-care-center/index or email CavalierCareCenter@BPCC.edu .
Counseling Services
Building F-Room 251
The Office of Campus Counselor exits to offer emergency help and brief Counseling sessions for all BPCC students free of charge. This office will make assessments and facilitate referrals to outside counseling agencies when students are in need of long term care. The Campus Counselor strives to empower and support students through life’s challenges while promoting a safe and healthy environment and an enriched college experience. Faculty referrals can be done by accessing the faculty and staff referral form from the Faculty/Staff Counseling Services page on Canvas. Students may also call to schedule an appointment by calling 318-678-6476 or can schedule by emailing the Campus Counselor at counseling@bpcc.edu. For more information about the Counseling Services, please visit our website at https://www.bpcc.edu/current-students/student-services/campus-counseling-services .
Confidentiality is a crucial component in the counseling process. Students will be treated with dignity and respect and are encouraged to feel comfortable in sharing vulnerably in a safe and non-threatening environment. Stress management, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges are examples of concerns addressed through counseling.
If you are not on campus and in need of immediate medical assistance, please all 911 or have a trusted person take you to a local emergency room.
Emergency/Crisis Numbers:
Emergency Services - 911
Campus Police - 318.678.6318
Bossier City Police Department - 318.741.8977
Bossier City Fire Department - 318.741.8710
Counseling Services - 318.678.6476
National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 800.273.8255 (TALK)
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988
Sexual Assault Hotline - 800.656.4673 (HOPE)
Domestic Violence Hotline - 800.799.7233 (SAFE)
Behavioral and Crisis Intervention Team
The Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) was established by the College to support and strengthen safety and security efforts across the campus. The BIT is made up of a licensed counselor, the Athletic Director, BPCC Confidential Advisors, the BPCC Safety and Security Officer, and the BPCC Chief of Police. The Campus Counselor leads the team and reports directly to the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services. The purpose of the BIT is to provide immediate crisis intervention for students if needed and to serve as the referral team for counseling services, emergency basic needs, psychiatric and dependency assistance, sexual assault, domestic abuse, and other crisis situations. More information about the Crisis Intervention and Referral Policy can be found on the BPCC webpage at https://www.bpcc.edu/current-students/student-handbook/student-services-general-policies-and-procedures.
Disability Services
Building F-Room 255
The Office of Disability Services coordinates campus-wide efforts to provide services and accommodations for students with disabilities. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the office ensures that eligible students receive proper classroom modification and serves as a liaison between faculty and students. Medical or psychological documentation is required to recognize a disability.
Categories of disabilities include:
- Physical impairment
- Sensory impairment (hearing or vision impaired)
- Learning disabilities
- Psychiatric/addictive disorder
To begin services, a registered BPCC student must not only provide the Disability Services with proper documentation, but must request assistance each semester.
In order to receive special accommodations for placement testing, students must make the request at least two weeks in advance of the test date. For more information about Disability Services, please visit the website at https://www.bpcc.edu/disability-services/index .
Student Activities and Organizations
Since a well-rounded education involves more than attending classes, Bossier Parish Community College offers extracurricular activities to satisfy student’s needs. The College encourages the student body to become involved in any of the organizations and activities on campus. Offering something for everyone, these organizations give students ample opportunity to become involved in planning activities, making new friends, developing leadership qualities, and receiving recognition for a job well done.
A number of chartered student organizations are available to students. All College policies and the Code of Student Conduct will be adhered to while participating in any student activity or organization. Students will be allowed freedom of association with organizations, which promote the interests of the academic community or College. The membership policies and actions of a student organization will be determined by vote of only those persons who hold bona fide membership in the College community. Each student organization must have a faculty/unclassified staff advisor.
Student organizations are open to all students without regard to race, creed, or national origin. Students and student organizations are free to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them and are free to express opinions publicly and privately. Organizations are allowed to invite and hear any person of its choosing, in keeping with the educational objectives of the College. As members of the academic community, students are free to express their views on issues of institutional policy and on matters of general interest to the student body.
Student organizations may be chartered based upon the recommendations of the Student Government Association and approval by the Student Life Committee. Applications for chartering a new student organization and a list of current organizations may be obtained from the Office of Student Life or is available online at https://www.bpcc.edu/current-students/student-life/student-organizations .
Student Lounges
BPCC provides a student lounge area in Building F on the first floor. The student lounge is open each school day from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., except during special events. Charging stations, vending machines, and a Subway restaurant are located in this area.
Student Representation in College Governance
The Student Government Association (SGA) is elected to represent and execute the student will and to promote the general welfare of all students. Through the SGA, students are encouraged to provide input into the decision-making process of the College. The SGA office is located within the Office of Student Life (F220).
Students also have a voice in College governance through representation on the Academic Misconduct Appeals Committee, the Disciplinary Hearing Committee, the Student Self-Assessed Fee Oversight Committee, and the Student Technology Fee Committee. In addition, the open-door policy of campus administrators allows for additional student input.
Student opinion surveys and event evaluations following activities/events on campus provide students the opportunity to make recommendations concerning policies and procedures at BPCC.
Student Publications
Student publications at Bossier Parish Community College serve a valuable and necessary function. One of the primary reasons for their existence rests in the educational value for editors, staff, and the student body at large. Publications should be used as tools for the establishment and maintenance of free, responsible discussion and intellectual exploration. As vehicles for free expression in an academic community, student publications must be guaranteed sufficient editorial freedom.
At the same time, since the entire academic community is represented in part by student publications, the editors of such publications must recognize their commitment to responsible journalism in the avoidance of libel, indecency, undocumented allegations or personal attacks, and in fair representation of the student body and the College. In an attempt to ensure responsible journalism, all copy must be previewed by the advisor prior to publication.
Savoir Faire
The BPCC literary arts magazine is published annually. The magazine features original art, poetry, essays, short stories, one-act plays, and photographs by students. All contributions are welcome and encouraged. Information on the submission process is available at https://www.bpcc.edu/savoirfaire/ .
Code of Student Conduct
Introduction
Student conduct in the environment of an institution of higher learning is expected to be exemplary at all times. The regulations listed within the Code of Student Conduct pertain to students and student life at Bossier Parish Community College. The Code of Student Conduct is promulgated by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services under the power and authority delegated by the Board of Louisiana Community and Technical College Supervisors and through the Chancellor of the College. The Chancellor has delegated the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Institutional Effectiveness as the agencies responsible for the administration of discipline at Bossier Parish Community College.
- Section I: Acts that Constitute Sanctionable Misconduct
- Section II: Academic Misconduct
- Section III: Disciplinary Policies and Procedures
- Section: IV: Disciplinary Hearing Procedures
- Section V: Appeal Procedures
The Code of Student Conduct
In support of the mission of BPCC, the College expects its students, student organizations, and all members of the College community to respect the rights of others, as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of the State of Louisiana and to obey all federal, state, and local laws, the rules and regulations of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System Supervisors and of Bossier Parish Community College.
BPCC affirms the rights of a student to fair and reasonable resolution of problems, which may accompany the condition of his/her enrollment. The handling of discipline on the College campus is not a criminal proceeding and will follow College procedures.
Each student is responsible for reading and obeying all rules outlined in the Code of Student Conduct. Regulations are designed to create and promote a wholesome educational environment, which includes honesty, integrity, citizenship, and interacting/communicating with others in a respectful and civil manner. To this means, the College condemns hate speech, as well as epithets and slurs based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, etc.
The Articles of Section One list the offenses which may be punished, whether they are committed by a student acting singly or with other students or by members of a student organization, whether the violation occurs on or off College property, and whether or not any action is taken by civil authorities.
Student organizations are accountable for any actions or activities by a member acting singly or in concert with others that result in a violation of conduct standards.
The College may also impose discipline sanctions if an off campus violation causes the student to be a clear and present danger or threat to the College community or deters the College from its purposes, function, or goals.
Students suspended and/or expelled from another college or university for disciplinary reasons may not be allowed to enroll in Bossier Parish Community College
See web site for complete student conduct policies: https://www.bpcc.edu/current-students/student-handbook/student-services-general-policies-and-procedures
Student Grievance Procedures
BPCC affirms the rights of students to fair and judicial resolution of problems which may accompany conditions of their enrollment. Toward this end, the College maintains informal and open access to instructors and administrators as an avenue by which grievances may be discussed.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
In accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (P. L. 9-380) as amended (P. L. 93-568-Buckley Amendment), persons of any age who attend a postsecondary educational institution that receives federal funding are hereby informed of the right to inspect and review their official education records. Bossier Parish Community College considers attendance to begin on the first day of classes. Students should submit to the Registrar or another appropriate College official written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. If the records are not maintained by the College official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
BPCC assumes that all students are independent unless the parents document dependence. Parents may so document by showing that the student is listed as a dependent on the parents’ latest income tax return. Additionally, all students are encouraged to fill out the FERPA Access Code Form at the time of admission to the College. If the form is not delivered in person, a copy of a state or federal ID must be submitted with this form when emailed or faxed.
BPCC is responsible for maintaining student records and supervising the release of any information on its students. All records that contain information directly relating to a student and are maintained by BPCC or by a party acting for the institution are considered part of the student’s permanent record. The academic records at BPCC are housed in the Registrar’s Office. The discipline records are housed in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Services. The Campus Police Log is housed in the office of the Campus Police Chief. These records are used only for specified purposes. BPCC is committed to protect the right of privacy for all its students. When records are no longer pertinent to the student or the College, they are destroyed as indicated by College policy. Students are provided annual notification of FERPA rights in the Student Handbook. The College cannot deny a student access to his/her records, but may deny a student a copy of his/her education records when the student has an unpaid financial obligation to the College or an unresolved disciplinary action against him/her.
As provided by law, the College may release directory information unless the student requests that any or all such information be withheld. Requests must be made to the Admissions/Registrar’s Office by the end of the second week of class. The College identifies directory information as student’s name, student ID number, date and place of birth, address, telephone number, electronic mail address, major field of study, and participation in officially recognized activities and sports, to include height and weight of student-athletes, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous school attendance, and photograph.
The College may release student education records without the written consent of the student:
- To school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the records. A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, security, academic or research, or support staff position; or a student who is serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility;
- To officials of another school, upon request, in which a student seeks or intends to enroll;
- To certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, and state and local education authorities in connection with certain state or federally supported education programs;
- In connection with the student’s request for receipt of financial aid;
- If required by state law;
- To organizations conducting studies;
- To accrediting organizations to carry out their functions;
- To parents who claimed the student for income tax purposes;
- To comply with a judicial order or a lawful subpoena;
- To appropriate parties in health or safety emergencies;
- For directory information so designated by the College; or
- As otherwise permitted by FERPA.
Alcohol and Drug Free Campus Policy
Drug Free Schools and Communities Act
The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) requires the College to certify to the Department of Education that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees.
This program must include the following:
- Standards of conduct concerning the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs, and the illegal use of alcohol by students and employees on College property or at any College activity;
- Description of legal sanctions;
- Clear statement of the College’s sanctions for violations;
- Description of any drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation services;
- Description of the health risks associated with use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol.
The information below is in compliance with the requirements of the Act.
Statement of Purpose
In an effort to assure compliance with Public Law 101-226, all facilities of BPCC are designated as Drug Free Zones. It is unlawful to possess, use, or distribute illicit drugs on BPCC property or at any College-sponsored event. Alcohol and drug use is a major issue in the community and on college campuses. Alcohol and drugs can seriously damage physical and mental health, as well as jeopardize personal and public safety. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption may lead to physical abuse, date rape, auto accidents, violence, and other behaviors which lead to self-destruction.
The College abides by all state, federal, and local laws pertaining to alcohol and will enforce underage drinking laws. BPCC policy prohibits the consumption, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or other drugs in or on any College property or while participating in any College-sponsored trip or activity. All state, local, and federal laws are enforced and may result in disciplinary action by the College as well as criminal prosecution. Violation of the underage drinking laws will be enforced.
The College provides drug awareness seminars throughout the year as well as referral services to students, faculty, and staff who seek help with substance abuse problems. Please refer to the Career Services Center for further information.
Policy Statement
Alcohol use and abuse is a major issue in the community and on college campuses. Excessive alcohol consumption may lead to physical abuse, date rape, auto accidents, violence, and other behaviors which lead to self-destruction.
The College abides by all state and local laws pertaining to drinking and will enforce underage drinking laws. BPCC policy prohibits the consumption, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages in or on any College property or while participating in any College-sponsored trip. The use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs is prohibited.
Students may be charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and be brought before the Disciplinary Hearing Committee for violations of the alcohol and drug policy. Sanctions for violations and procedures for conducting a hearing are listed in the Student Handbook. Sanctions may include–but are not limited to–counseling, suspension of privileges, community service, or suspension from the College.
College Sanctions
Complete sanctions and hearing procedures are described in the Code of Student Conduct section of the Student Handbook. Examples of sanctions may include suspension of privileges, community service, suspension, or expulsion from campus.
Programs with a Clinical Component
Upon acceptance into a program with a clinical component, each student will be required to sign an Authority to Release Drug and/or Alcohol Testing Records release form and is assessed a non-refundable drug screen fee. Drug testing can be performed randomly, selectively or as a group. Refusal of the program student to submit to a drug test or a positive drug screen indicating alcohol or drug use will result in the student’s immediate dismissal from the program.
A student who has been dismissed from a program for a positive drug screen indicating alcohol or drug use may reapply to the program from which he/she was dismissed or to another clinical program after a period of one year with the understanding that the positive drug screen will remain on his/her record. Should a student have another positive drug screen, the student will be dismissed from the program immediately and shall not be permitted to apply to any Bossier Parish Community College allied health program.
Programs with a clinical component also abide by regulations set forth by accreditation agencies, state and federal regulatory boards/agencies, and state and federal law. Program specific management of positive drug/alcohol screen results may vary due to these external requirements. Program specific management is outlined in the program handbook.
Alcohol and Drug 101
What kind of substance is alcohol?
Alcohol is classified as a depressant because it slows down the central nervous system, causing a decrease in motor coordination, reaction time and intellectual performance. At high doses, the respiratory system slows down drastically and can cause a coma or DEATH.
How does alcohol move through the body?
Once swallowed, a drink enters the stomach and small intestine, where small blood vessels carry it to the bloodstream. Approximately 20% of alcohol is absorbed through the stomach and most of the remaining 80% is absorbed through the small intestine. Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, where enzymes break down the alcohol. In general, the liver can process one ounce of liquor (or one standard drink) in one hour. If you consume more than this, your system becomes saturated, and the additional alcohol will accumulate in the blood and body tissues until it can be metabolized. This is why pounding shots or playing drinking games can result in high blood alcohol concentrations that last for several hours.
How much is “one” drink?
A standard drink contains about 14 grams (about 0.6 fluid ounces) of pure alcohol. Counting your drinks gets tricky when a drink container holds multiple standard drinks, such as a red cup or certain mixed drinks. Approximate standard drink equals to:
- 12 oz. of beer (Note: a red SOLO cup holds 16 oz.)
- 5 oz. table wine (Note: table wine bottles (typically 750 ml) hold five standard drinks)
- 8-9 oz. of malt liquor (Note: malt liquor is often sold in 16, 22, or 40 oz. containers that hold 2-5 standard drinks)
- 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor (Note: the same amount of liquors with higher alcohol content (above 80 proof) contain more than one standard drink)
What are some common effects of drinking alcohol? Alcohol may: **
- Cause mood swings.
- Make you less patient.
- Give you a false sense of confidence.
- Make you more aggressive.
- Impede your ability to make responsible decisions.
- Make you less cautious
Alcohol may impair: **
- Memory
- Muscle coordination
- Balance
- Sense of touch
- Hearing
- Sense of Control
- Your ability to react and form judgments
- Vision by decreasing
- Peripheral (side) vision
- Frontal vision and focusing
- Ability to recover from glare
- Number and speed of scans
- Depth perception
- Color sensitivity
**These effects increase substantially when alcohol is combined with other drugs**
What are the short-term risks of drinking?
When you’re drinking, one of the first things to go is your judgment. So, celebrating or having fun with friends can quickly turn into embarrassing yourself, getting hurt, throwing up or nursing a hangover. These statistics show the very real risks of drinking in college:
- 70% of college students admit to engaging in unplanned sexual activity primarily as a result of drinking or to having sex they wouldn’t have had if they had been sober.
- At least 1 out of 5 college students abandons safer sex practices when they’re drunk, even if they do protect themselves when they’re sober.
- Heavy drinkers consistently have lower grades.
- One night of heavy drinking can impair your ability to think abstractly and grasp difficult concepts for as long as a month.
*Content adapted from information found at Foundation for a DrugFreeworld.org*
Alcohol Poisoning
What is Alcohol Poisoning?
Alcohol Poisoning occurs when someone has consumed more alcohol than their body can safely metabolize. Warning Signs Include:
- Won’t wake up
- Vomiting while passed out
- Slow/Irregular Breathing
- Extreme Confusion
- Pale Skin
What do you do?
- Call 911 immediately.
- Do not let them “sleep it off”. Even though the person may have stopped drinking, alcohol continues to be released into the bloodstream and alcohol levels continue to rise. If left alone, the person’s symptoms could get worse.
- Do not try to make the person vomit. Someone who is very drunk has an impaired gag reflex and may choke on their vomit or accidentally inhale vomit into their lungs.
- Turn the person on their side to prevent choking while vomiting.
- Stay calm.
What Happens If I Don’t Do Anything?
If someone with alcohol poisoning is left untreated, they can suffer from:
- hypothermia (severe low body temperature)
- heart beats become irregular or stop
- breathing slows, becomes irregular or stops
- severe dehydration
- death
Even if the person lives, an alcohol overdose can cause irreversible brain damage.
Not Sure? Call 911.
- Not sure if you should call? Just Call 911. Let the medical professionals make the educated decision.
- Serious medical repercussions or death are obviously worse than a hospital bill.
Black Outs
- A blackout is caused by the intake of any substance that disrupts the creation of long term memory.
- Alcohol also affects the functioning of the hippocampus, which affects emotion, memory, and learning capabilities.
Blackouts (“alcoholic or drug related amnesia”) occur when people lose or have no memory of what happened while intoxicated. These periods may last from a few hours to several days. During a blackout, someone may appear fine to others; however, cannot remember parts of the night and what they did. The cause may involve the brain’s diminished ability to store short term memory, deep seizures, or in some cases, psychological depression. Blackouts shouldn’t be confused with “passing out,” which happens when people lose consciousness from drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Anyone who loses consciousness has reached a very dangerous level of intoxication and could slip into a coma.
*information adapted from Wikipedia “Blackouts (drug related amnesia)”*
How can I prevent a blackout?
- Blackouts tend to occur after rapid consumption of alcohol, especially on an empty stomach.
- It’s not how much you drink, but how fast you drink.
- Avoid chugging or gulping alcoholic beverages.
- Eat a meal before you begin drinking.
Types of Blackouts
True blackout:
- No details are remembered
- People tend to fall asleep before it’s over
- Conversations and behaviors are only stored for 2 minutes or less
- Memory is intact for 2 minutes or less
Partial blackouts (brown-out)
- More common than full blackouts
- Partial blockade of memory function
- Missing information but some memory recall
Hang Overs
What is a hangover and can I prevent it?
Hangovers are the body’s withdrawal symptoms from alcohol use and the body’s reaction to the toxicity of alcohol. The severity of symptoms varies according to the individual and the quantity of alcohol consumed.
Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Headache
- Thirst
- Nausea
- Vomiting
There are many myths about how to prevent or alleviate hangovers, and many different approaches to relieve the effects of “the morning after, but the only safe way to prevent a hangover is to drink in moderation:
- Eat a good dinner and continue to snack throughout the night.
- Alternate one alcoholic drink with one non-alcoholic drink. (Water is a GREAT choice)
- Avoid drinking games or shots. Drinking a large amount of alcohol in a short amount of time is the most likely way to become dangerously intoxicated.
Here are some of the things that WON’T help a hangover:
- Drinking a little more alcohol the next day. This simply puts more alcohol in your body and prolongs the effects of the alcohol intoxication.
- Having caffeine while drinking will not counteract the intoxication of alcohol; you simply get a more alert drunk person. Excessive caffeine will continue to lower your blood sugar and dehydrate you even more than alcohol alone.
- Cold Showers will only make you cleaner not sober or help with a hangover.
- Giving water to someone who is throwing up. Once the stomach is irritated enough to cause vomiting, it doesn’t matter what you put into it – it’s going to come back up. Any liquid will cause a spasm reaction and more vomiting.
- Tylenol (Acetaminophen) may help with a headache, but the liver is on overdrive getting rid of the alcohol. Acetaminophen will only make it work harder and may become lethal.
Here are some things that MIGHT help a hangover:
- Hydrate, Hydrate, HYDRATE!! Drink plenty of water and juice.
- Eat a healthy meal. Processing alcohol causes a drop in blood sugar and can contribute to headaches.
- An over-the-counter antacid (Tums, Pepto Bismol or Maalox) may relieve some of the symptoms of an upset stomach.
- Simple sugars from soft drinks and candy get used up quickly. Eat complex carbohydrates like breads, cereals or pasta.
Mixing Drugs/Alcohol
Alcohol and Energy Drinks/Caffeine:
When using Red Bull or Monster as a mixer or drinking pre-mixed drinks like Four Loko or Sparks, you are tricking your body into thinking it’s not tired. Your body is more intoxicated than you may feel, which can lead to alcohol poisoning. Energy drinks also increase dehydration which leads to hangovers the next day. Those who consumed both alcohol and caffeine were at least two times as likely – compared to those drinking alcohol without caffeine – to be hurt, need medical attention, take sexual advantage of another, or accept a ride with someone who was inebriated.
Alcohol and Adderall:
Adderall causes one to feel like they are not as drunk as they really are. This can lead to making very dangerous decisions since you are unaware of your level of intoxication. Because alcohol is a depressant and Adderall is a stimulant, drinking alcohol while taking Adderall can cause cardiac arrhythmias, and paranoid or psychotic reactions, on top of the risks of vomiting, dizziness, muscle twitching and headaches that are more likely to increase when mixed with alcohol.
When prescribed Adderall, patients are advised not to drink alcohol. The side-effects could be much more dangerous for students using Adderall without a prescription.
Alcohol and Painkillers:
Includes: Vicodin, Xanax, Oxycontin, Percocet, Demerol, Norco, etc.
Mixing painkillers with alcohol is dangerous. The mixture of these two substances can lead to intensified sedative effects and respiratory depression. Painkillers can lead to liver problems and disease when used recreationally, the mixture of this drug with alcohol can intensify these side-effects.
Alcohol and Marijuana:
Mixing these two substances can cause heavy vomiting, spins, very strong paranoia, decreased motor control and decreased mental concentration. Also, because marijuana suppresses the gag reflex, you may not be able to throw up alcohol when your body needs to.
Alcohol and Cocaine:
These two substances are commonly mixed with the thought that they cancel each other out; this is NOT TRUE. Combining cocaine and alcohol produces a high amount of a third unique substance, called cocaethylene. A high amount of cocaethylene in the body increases the already harmful risk of cardiovascular toxicity to a much higher extent than any other drug. Cardiovascular toxicity causes pressure and stress on the heart.
Alcohol and Heroin:
Each of these substances alone causes depression of the central nervous system, so the mixture of the two is extremely dangerous and has been proven to be fatal.
Alcohol and Ecstasy:
It is very well known that one should never mix ecstasy with any other drug substance, especially alcohol. It is known that most ecstasy related deaths have been due to the mixture of alcohol with the drug. When the two are mixed the alcohol reduces the feeling of the ecstasy’s high and puts a much greater strain on the kidneys. Also, dehydration caused by drinking alcohol occurs more rapidly when on ecstasy.
Alcohol and LSD/Acid:
Alcohol is mixed with LSD to take down or slow down the effects and relax. However, more commonly combining alcohol can make the comedown of the drug much worse with extreme nausea and vomiting.
Alcohol and Amphetamines:
Amphetamines alone are very risky because of the strain on the heart and the increase in blood pressure. When mixing alcohol with amphetamines side-effects can become much more serious. Consuming alcohol while taking amphetamines can make someone act very aggressive and irresponsible; it is extremely harmful to the kidneys and intensifies hangover effects.
Alcohol and Antibiotics:
It is important to always read the labels on prescription medications and adhere to the warnings about alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol while on antibiotics can cause nausea, dizziness, vomiting, fatigue and in some cases convulsions, immense headache, flushing, rapid heart rate and shortness of breath. Since antibiotics and alcohol are both broken down through the liver the combination of these substances can result in liver damage. This combination also diminishes the effects of the antibiotics you are taking. Try to focus on getting healthy again. You’ll probably enjoy drinking more once you’re healthy anyway.
Alcohol and Antidepressants
Combining alcohol with antidepressants (Zoloft, Prozac, etc.) can cause an increased response to alcohol – For example, having one drink might feel like two. Also, the combination might create unexpected emotions and inhibit the antidepressant from doing what it’s supposed to do. If it is a new prescription, try it out without drinking alcohol so you are familiar with your body’s reaction first and ask your doctor if you have problems.
Alcohol and Antihistamines:
Drinking alcohol while taking antihistamines can cause a less effective outcome of the medication. Your body will choose to metabolize the alcohol before the antihistamines. Labels typically suggest you stay away from alcohol all together when on antihistamines so it is very important to always check any label on the drug.
Alcohol and Birth Control Pills:
Birth control pills take three full hours to get into your blood stream and be effective. If you vomit due to drinking or any other causes before that three hour window, the effectiveness of birth control pills is diminished. Mixing alcohol and birth control can make some people feel nauseous, which can cause vomiting.
*information adapted from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the University of Rochester Health Service *
Sobering Up
Question: What’s the best way to sober up?
- take a cold shower
- drink black coffee
- exercise
- eat bread
- make yourself throw up
Answer: None of the above!
The amount of alcohol in your blood is controlled by the metabolic rate of the liver. The only effective thing that will sober someone up is time.
FYI- It takes as many hours to sober up as the number of drinks ingested. Even after a night’s sleep, someone can still wake up with a BAC over .08, which is legally drunk in Louisiana.
Louisiana DUI Laws/Penalties for D.U.I. or D.W.I.
(As Stated at www.Legis.State.La.Us)
First conviction
- Offender shall be fined $300-$1000
- imprisoned for 10 days to 6 months
- Probation with a minimum condition of two days in jail and a court-approved substance abuse program and participate in a court-approved driver improvement program
- May be ordered to variety of community service projects
Second Conviction
- Offender shall be fined $750-$1000
- Imprisoned for 30 to 6 months
- 48 mandatory jail time without parole or suspension of sentence
- May be ordered to variety of community service projects
- Probation includes 15 day jail stay and substance abuse training.
Third Conviction
- Offender shall be fined $2000
- Imprisoned for 1-5 years
- 30 eight-hour days of community service
- Psychological evaluation
- Must participate in a appointed treatment program
Penalties for Drunk Driving Vehicular Homicide
- Vehicular Homicide: Not less than 5 years (3 years mandatory) or more than 30 years and not less than $2,000 or more than $15,000. LA R.S. § 14:32.1(B).
For further information you may contact us at studentservices@bpcc.edu.
Campus Free Expression Policy
Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) values the freedoms of speech, expression, and assembly in its college environment. In accordance with the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution of Louisiana, and ACT 666 of the 2018 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature (Louisiana Campus Free Expression Law), students, administrators, faculty members, staff members, and invited guests who wish to assemble and engage in noncommercial expressive activities on the public areas of BPCC’s campus shall be permitted to do so freely, as long as the conduct is not unlawful and does not materially and substantially disrupt the functioning of the campus.
BPCC will strive to ensure the fullest degree of intellectual freedom and free expression by its students, administrators, faculty members, staff members, and invited guests who are lawfully present on the campus. In addition, any persons lawfully on BPCC’s campus have the freedom to discuss any topic that presents itself, as provided under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America and Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution of Louisiana, and other applicable laws. In addition, any person lawfully present on campus may protest or demonstrate freely in public areas as long as such protests and demonstrations do not infringe upon the constitutional rights of others to engage in or listen to expressive activity by creating a substantial and material disruption to the functioning of the campus or to someone’s expressive activity. It is not the proper role of this institution to shield individuals from speech protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America and Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution of Louisiana, and other applicable laws, including without limitation, ideas and opinions the individuals find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive.
Public areas are outdoor areas of BPCC’s campus, are considered traditional public forums, and are open to expressive activities. These public areas include grassy areas, walkways, or other similar common areas but do not include areas where access is restricted including but not limited to classrooms, faculty and staff offices, administrative offices, service area offices, the Learning Commons (Tutoring Center), or any areas where students are engaging in learning activities, or faculty, staff, and administration are performing their official duties. All expressive activities, protests, or demonstrations must be held during normal working hours of the College. Such activities are not permitted when the campus is closed.
Students who feel aggrieved by a violation of this policy should contact the Vice Chancellor for Student Services. Faculty or staff who feel aggrieved by a violation of this policy should contact the Director of Human Resources.
This policy supersedes and nullifies any provision in the policies and procedures of the College that restrict speech on campus.
Title IX
As part of its commitment to providing an educational environment free from discrimination, Bossier Parish Community College complies with Title IX of the Education Amendments, which prohibits discrimination and harassment based upon sex in an institution’s education programs and activities. Title IX prohibits sexual harassment, including sexual violence, of students at Bossier Parish Community College sponsored activities and programs whether occurring on or off campus. Title IX also protects third-parties, such as visiting student athletes, from sexual harassment or sexual violence in BPCC’s programs and activities and protects employees from sexual harassment and discrimination. Prohibited harassment includes acts of verbal, nonverbal or physical aggression, intimidation or hostility based on sex, even if those acts do not involve conduct of a sexual nature; sex-based harassment by those of the same sex; and discriminatory sex stereotyping. BPCC will take prompt action to investigate and resolve reports of sexual harassment or sexual violence in accordance with Title IX. BPCC’s Title IX Coordinator is Tierney “Teri” Bashara, Bldg. A -105, 6220 E. Texas Street, Bossier City, LA 71111. Phone: (318) 678-6056. Email: tbashara@bpcc.edu. For more information about Title IX, please visit our website at https://www.bpcc.edu/current-students/title-ix .
Campus Safety and Annual Security Report
The Annual College Safety and Security Report can be found at the Campus Security Reports webpage.
Health Services
Because Bossier Parish Community College is a commuter college, it does not have an official on-campus health clinic. In addition, due to the proximity to the Bossier City Fire Department, first aid services are not offered by the College.
Promotion of prevention practices is encouraged through health-related seminars for the faculty and the staff each semester. Also, weekly campus-wide safety inspections are conducted to identify potential threats.
Though first aid supplies might be provided by an individual, it is not an activity endorsed by or sponsored by Bossier Parish Community College. In case of an emergency, contact the nearest faculty or staff member and they will contact the Campus Police Department and the Bossier City Fire Department.
The administration of health educational services is the responsibility of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety.
For further information you may contact us at studentservices@bpcc.edu.
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