I recently read an article titled, "College Students Warned About Loading Up on Caffeine Boosters," in the Valley News Dispatch. I found it very interesting, yet troubling, to read that students are not only loading up on caffeine such as coffee, sodas, and energy drinks, but they are also taking Adderall or Ritalin, a prescribed drug used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Students are getting their hands on these drugs by any means necessary to help them with maintaining concentration. The reason why students are going to such great lengths is because of the pressure to do well in school. Terri Bassicook, a director of Counseling, Disability and Health Services at Seton Hill University in Greensburg states, “Some of their financial aid or scholarships are linked to their GPA (grade point averages).”
I can see using coffee, soda, tea, or energy drinks to help with staying awake while trying to study as long as you use it in moderation. In my opinion, too much of anything can be dangerous. I can’t imagine going to great lengths to get Adderall or Ritalin. What ever happened to time management? In life we have to make choices. I’ve learned that good choices net good results and bad choices net bad results. So what if you miss a party, can’t go to a game, or can't participate in a Madden tournament on your favorite game console; at the end of the day, which one is most important, education or pleasure?
While I agree that time management is a huge problem for students, it doesn't always boil down to just the extracurriculars. Some students work full or part time to support themselves as well as go to college. For those that can do this and pull good grades, I commend you. Some students have families (children and spouse) that they have to incorporate into their times. It can be very difficult. As an older student, I can relate most to this.
ReplyDeleteWhat some people don't understand is that caffeine can cause other problems that would keep them concentrating. I drink coffee. If I drink too much of it, I end up not being able to concentrate on one thing because my brain is off thinking about other things.
No one should be using any kind of drug without a doctor's authorization.
Thanks Nancey for your comment. It is greatly appreciated. I am also a person who works full-time, go to school full-time, have children and a spouse. My post was written pertaining to traditional students. I commend you for seeking higher education and wish you luck.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to see you responding to comments... and super glad to see comments already.
ReplyDeleteI somehow managed to make it through 11 years of college without an overdose. Students are working more hours now than they did when I was an undergrad, but I also had the spouse and toddler through grad school. I hear your "time management" and raise you one "priorities."
The white on black is hard on the eyes. You should update the look of your blog.
Dr C
Easier to read now! Why wasn't there a new post this week?
ReplyDeleteDr C
I made a post today (2/2/2012) was I late? I try to post them on Tuesdays, however, I didn't get the chance to post one this past Tuesday.
ReplyDelete