As a scientist who has done research on college drinking I agree that this is a serious problem which needs to be dealt with. When I was an undergraduate drinking was against the rules and individuals who were caught had to attend educational classes. Drinking was still rampant. I feel a more effective approach is to work to change the social norm. This approach has been shown to be effective in reducing campus wide rates and treats the students as adults who make their own decisions.
College needs to be a time of freedom.
Students should be allowed to make their own choices. Our job is to help them make the right one while treating them as adults. Be sure to include your name and affiliation. Legitimate requests for anonymity will be honored. The Chronicle maintains Colloquy as an open forum where readers can comment on issues.