More freshmen have committed alcohol-related offenses so far this year than had at this point last year, but the head of Student Judicial Services attributes the increase to a slightly larger freshman class.

As of Thursday, 60 freshmen have been addressed by SJS for alcohol-related behavior, SJS Director Tara Pereira said in an e-mail. Last year only 42 freshmen had been addressed at this point, but Pereira said the increase is about the same by percentage. A total of 100 students from all grades have met with or will soon meet with an administrator to discuss alcohol-related offenses, Pereira said.

Students who face disciplinary action for alcohol-related offenses can receive punishments that range from fines and alcohol education to suspension or expulsion.

Those who are hospitalized for the first time must pay a $100 fine and meet with a professional staff member. If the student is underage, his or her parents are notified. Pereira said 17 freshmen have been hospitalized this year.

Fourteen of the 17 students hospitalized received medical attention because another individual called EMeRG, something Pereira said her office supported.

Many more males have been cited for alcohol-related behaviors than females, Pereira said.

“For this current academic year, the percentage of first year male students vs. first year female students who have been addressed for alcohol-related behaviors is approximately 70 percent to 30 percent,” Pereira said in an e-mail. She added that over the course of the academic year the ratio usually ends up at 60 percent to 40 percent.

Pereira also said the University received higher turnouts of parents and students for alcohol-related information sessions this year at Colonial Inauguration. She said her office encourages students to attend events like the Center for Alcohol and Drug Education’s “Natural High” event series, and also recommends communicating with GW Housing Programs staff about responsible alcohol-related behaviors and concerns.