Substance Abuse & Alcohol Education are extremely important topics to address with all college students. Athletics, in conjunction with the Student Counseling Center and the University’s Office of Student Affairs aim to educate and inform student-athletes about the consequences of drugs and alcohol abuse. USC requires all freshman to complete an Alcohol EDU online program. In addition, the athletic department uses POWER program speakers to educate student-athletes on the topic, offers annual interactive team presentations, and conducts yearly continuing student-athlete alcohol interviews. The goals of these programs are to inform student-athletes of the health, academic and financial risks that can occur and educate them on making the best decision possible in substance abuse issues.