Frequently asked questions about alcohol or drugs
Q - What is alcohol poisoning or alcohol overdose, and what are the symptoms?
A - Alcohol poisoning is a condition where toxic amounts of alcohol have been consumed,
usually in a short period of time. The person may become extremely disoriented, unresponsive,
or unconscious, with shallow breathing. Symptoms can also include vomiting, seizures,
blue-tinged or pale clammy skin, or low body temperature. Because alcohol poisoning
can be deadly, emergency treatment is needed immediately. Do not wait for all of the
symptoms, call 9-1-1 and get help right away if in doubt.
Q - If I am underage and have been drinking, will I be in trouble if I call 9-1-1 to help
a friend?
A - Washington State has a medical amnesty law for alcohol and drugs that allows underage
users to call for help without fearing prosecution. The law is meant to encourage
minors to call 9-1-1, if needed during a medical emergency.
Q - Does drinking really affect my grades?
A - Drinking alcohol can have a negative impact on cognitive functions (concentration,
memory and attention). With heavy drinking, positive blood alcohol levels can remain
the next day and may limit a student's ability to get up for class and impair mental
processing and memory resulting in incomplete work, poor exam results and lower grades.
Q - Why can't I use marijuana on campus when it is legal in Washington?
A - Marijuana is still illegal under federal law and permitting its use at Green River
College would violate the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act. If Green River failed
to comply with the act, it could become ineligible for federal funding and lose financial
aid for students.
Q - How do I find help for a friend who is drinking too much?
A - In supporting your friend, you can guide her to the Green River College Counseling
Services Office located in the Student Affairs and Success Center, Room 266 (within
the financial aid lobby). Their services provide short-term mental health counseling
and self-care/wellness education at no charge for GRC students. The phone number is
253-833-9111, ext. 2460.
Other contacts are listed in the Helpful Resources section of this website.
Q - What is Green River College's policy on the use of drugs or alcohol?
A - Green River College advocates maintaining a safe, healthy and productive educational
and work environment for students, employees and the public. As such, GRC complies
with the federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, the Controlled Substances
Act, and the drug and alcohol regulations mandated by the federal Highway Administration
of the Department of Transportation, along with other applicable federal, state and
local laws and regulations.
The possession, use, or sale of illegal drugs is not tolerated and will be subject to discipline. Marijuana use is prohibited by federal law on the GRC campus (including the Campus Corner Apartments) or off-campus at college sponsored events such as student activities, athletic events, conferences or workshops (regardless of the fact that it is legal in Washington for those 21 and older).
The possession of, consumption of, or being under the influence of any form of liquor by any student on college facilities or participating in a college sponsored activity will be cause for disciplinary action.