ACE IT is a workshop offered as part of the University of Illinois Counseling Center’s Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Program. ACE IT's goal is to help you to stay safe, be healthy, and succeed academically—whether or not you choose to drink. It's offered in partnership with New Student Programs and is required for all new undergraduate students and transfers under the age of 21.
What can I expect at ACE IT?
ACE IT has been automatically added to your Canvas account if you are required to complete the online modules for the Fall 2022 semester. It can be completed as early as June 6 and should be finished by October 7. On average, students report that it is most convenient to complete all of the ACE IT complete-at-your-own-pace modules at one time and to plan for 30-45 minutes.
During ACE IT, you will complete educational modules that discuss a variety of alcohol and other drug-related situations. Each module will be presented by peer educators to examine attitudes, situations, and choices regarding drinking. You’ll also get a first look at the wealth of services offered by the Counseling Center, learn about resources throughout campus, and check your knowledge along the way.
To receive credit for this required workshop, each section must be completed in order. You will also have access to various handouts and brochures that you can download and access in the future.
What is ACE IT’s approach?
Many new students are making their own decisions about the use of alcohol for the first time, and the University of Illinois is committed to increasing the health, safety, and academic success of students as they adjust to campus life. Students who arrive predisposed not to drink need to know that they are not alone and that the University supports this choice. Students who believe that drinking will be an important part of their college experience need to be aware of the possible impact that the abuse of alcohol may have on their health, safety, and academic success. As part of the Counseling Center’s innovative harm reduction approach, ACE IT does not lecture or preach abstinence.
ACE IT employs recordings, videos, and short quizzes to examine situations, attitudes, and choices regarding alcohol and the campus drinking culture. ACE IT Peer Educators do not lecture, but ask students to look at their own expectations and assumptions to avoid making high risk or passive decisions related to the use of alcohol. Students are encouraged to look at their own beliefs and behaviors about alcohol use, while listening to the experience of others and receiving information that will enable them to make low risk choices about consuming alcohol.
How do I take ACE IT?
ACE IT has been automatically added to your Canvas account if you are required to complete the online modules for the incoming Fall 2022 semester.
When does the online training open and what is the deadline to complete it?
For 2022, it can be completed as early as June 6 and should be finished by October 7.
How will ACE IT staff know I completed the training?
Completion will be recorded in the Canvas learning management system. Progress can be checked by viewing the 6 learning modules.
Can I give feedback about the program?
Yes! There is a survey available here.
How do I become an ACE IT peer facilitator?
To become a peer facilitator, you will need to successfully complete CHLH (Community Health) 127, which is offered every Spring semester. You’ll be ready to serve as a peer facilitator the very next summer/fall. Coursework focuses on learning practical facilitation skills and basic education on substances.
What if I have other questions?
Contact ACE IT Staff at aceitprogram@illinois.edu.