The University of Pennsylvania’s Response to Alcohol/Other Drug Incidents:

The First Step Program

First Step provides brief alcohol and drug interventions for students who are experiencing negative unintentional consequences as a result of alcohol and other drug use/abuse, have violated the University of Pennsylvania’s Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, or have needed medical attention due to alcohol and/or other drug use. First Step offers each student the opportunity to:

• Increase self-awareness of personal alcohol and other drug behaviors.
  
  
• Identify alcohol and other drug patterns and potential for risk.
  
  
• Gain encouragement and support in making self-directed changes in his/her alcohol and other drug use.
  
  
• Focus on harm reduction tactics that can help keep negative consequences and health risks at a minimum.
  
  
• Talk openly about issues involved in his/her alcohol and other drug use within the context of a safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment.
  
  
• Learn about additional resources that are available on campus to support students.

Students can be referred by College House Deans, the Office of Student Conduct, Student Health Services and other University staff/faculty. In addition, self-referrals are encouraged. Again, First Step is a confidential option for students who are experiencing negative unintentional consequences as a result of their alcohol and other drug use.

To make an appointment to meet with Julie Lyzinski, the First Step Intervention Specialist, please call Steve McCann at 215-573-3525. Or, you may email Julie directly at lyzinski@pobox.upenn.edu.