Many college students are living on their own for the first time, and they will likely make mistakes in the process of becoming independent adults. One of these mistakes may be possessing large amounts of illicit drugs or even selling drugs such as hallucinogens, methamphetamines, cocaine and other party drugs. Even if they do not recognize the severity of their actions, college students are adults and will face adult penalties if caught possessing or selling illicit drugs.
The statistics
College students may use hallucinogens to relax or methamphetamines to stay alert and active. According to one report, as of 2018, 4.1% of college students reported using LSD at least once annually. In addition, 4.8% of college students reported using LSD or PCP in the past. The report also found that 1.2% of college students respondents stated they had used methamphetamines in the past. Overall, approximately one in 14 young adults have used hallucinogens in the past and 1 in 125 young adults have used methamphetamines in the past.
College party culture leads to the use of drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy, to enhance a good time. One report state that 4.2% of college student respondents reported having used cocaine in the past. In addition, one in 200 college-age adults have used heroin in the past. Moreover, one in 10 college students reported using ecstasy in the past.
The consequences
The consequences of college drug use are severe. As adults, college students who are caught possessing large amounts of drugs or selling illicit drugs can face jail time, steep fines and a criminal record that will follow them well into adulthood. In addition, a conviction for possessing illicit drugs or selling them could disqualify a college student from receiving federal student aid, making going to college unaffordable and thus impossible. This can have life-long consequences. Therefore, if your college student is facing serious drug charges, they will want to make sure they know all their legal rights and options so they can make decisions that are in their best interests.