Alcohol consumption among working students: the moderating effects of workplace policies and college major

Abstract There is extensive research regarding the alcohol consumption behaviors of employees and of college students, yet little work has considered crossover between these populations. This study examines work-related factors and college major (hospitality vs. non-hospitality) in explaining alcohol use at work among employed college students (N = 788). Results demonstrated formal alcohol policies moderated the effects of access to alcohol and after-work alcohol-use norms (social drinking), but not the effect of at-work norms (coworker behaviors). No effects were found for college major. Hospitality majors reported a slightly higher consumption level; however, less than 6% reported high-risk behaviors. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.