Marijuana is becoming legal in states and cities across the country, so it’s not a big deal if you get caught at Penn State, right? Not exactly.

The evolving marijuana legislation can be confusing. Some students come from states where marijuana is legalized or decriminalized. Even within Pennsylvania there are areas where the police can be more lenient with marijuana violations. Some cities have adopted ordinances that allow for lower charges. A lot of students expect a marijuana charge to result in “just a fine” or expect the penalties to be similar to an underage drinking citation. Given that there is so much variation across the state, we think it is important for students to be knowledgeable about how marijuana violations are handled locally.

In State College and University Park, marijuana offenses are charged as misdemeanors under Pennsylvania law. In the state, marijuana is defined as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, and marijuana is not approved for medical use.  (1)

Possession of a small amount of marijuana leads to more than just the $500 fine. Additional penalties include driver’s license suspension as well as possible jail time. The fine for possession of marijuana paraphernalia is even more significant at $2500. (1)

Currently, a misdemeanor conviction in Pennsylvania creates a criminal record. A record can make it difficult to get an internship or a job in the future. In some cases, at the discretion of the District Attorney, a person who is charged with possession of marijuana or paraphernalia can apply for the Alternative Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. The advantage of ARD is that if it is successfully completed, the charges can be dismissed and expunged. However, ARD is not cheap or quick. It takes a year to complete and costs between $1300 and $1500. (1)

And that’s not all. Possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia is also a violation of the Penn State Student Code of Conduct. Penn State sanctions include disciplinary probation, review of housing contract for those in on-campus housing, and mandatory participation in the Marijuana Intervention Program. The violation also becomes a part of the student’s disciplinary record. (2)

Getting caught with marijuana is a big deal. It comes with a price tag of thousands of dollars, a risk to your career, and for many, a great deal of mental and emotional stress.

For questions or legal advice related to marijuana, contact Student Legal Services. Services are confidential.

If marijuana is having a negative impact on your life? FREE and CONFIDENTIAL support is available. Learn more at http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/health/MIP/

(1) http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/legalservices/publications/ Marijuana Overview

(2) http://studentaffairs.psu.edu/conduct/codeofconduct/

As a close friend, you can play a key role in supporting someone who has an eating disorder. In many cases individuals with eating disorders cannot recognize that they need help and having support from a caring friend can make a difference.

Eating disorders are physical, psychological, and emotional conditions that can affect anyone. They can cause permanent health damage and can be fatal. If you think a friend has an eating disorder, it is important to express your concerns in a loving and supportive way.

Learn more about the signs, symptoms, and how to talk with a friend.

Campus Resources:

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), 863-0395
• University Health Services (UHS)
  Clinical Services, 863-0774
  Nutrition Clinic, 863-0461
  Healthy Eating and Living Support

Internet Resources:

• Nationaleatingdisorders.org
• Womenshealth.gov/body-image
• Eatingdisorderhope.com

Most college students lead pretty active lives. Most of you walk to class and many of you engage in some type of fitness-related activity, such as going to the gym or running. It’s important to get enough fuel (calories, that is) to help you stay focused and energized throughout the day. Be sure to eat nutrient-dense food, such as fruits, vegetable, proteins and whole grains. Eat breakfast, even if it’s something small like a piece of fruit.  Avoid skipping meals and try to limit processed foods with minimal nutrients.

Here are 5 Ways to Fuel your Body

1. Cook dinner with your friends
2. Try a new fruit or vegetable for lunch
3. Pack healthy snacks in your bag for days when you’re on the go
4. Eat a solid breakfast to get your day started

Are you struggling to control your drinking or use of other addictive substances? If so, you are not alone. Many students find themselves in trouble with academics, relationships, or the law due to substance use. Friends and family may be trying to help, but most do not understand alcoholism or addiction. The Collegiate Recovery Community at Penn State does understand and they are here to help.

The CRC:

• Communicates a message of hope
• Links students with recovery-related services and persons in recovery, including fellow students
• Supports the University’s academic mission by pairing education and recovery
• Facilitates the development of healthy and sustainable habits of mind, body, and spirit
• Supports lifelong recovery by providing a Penn State community committed to helping students, even after they graduate

If you are worried that you might have a problem, contact the Program Coordinator at the CRC at pennstatecrc@gmail.com and arrange for a meeting. The meeting will be confidential. The Coordinator can also arrange for you to speak with other students in recovery. Learn more at http://sites.psu.edu/pscrc/.

Don’t have time to take a break? Good news — taking a break actually increases your motivation, energy, and ability to focus. Whether it’s just a few moments of deep breathing or a weekend camping trip with friends, taking a break for any amount of time can give your brain the rest it needs to keep you happy and productive.

Penn State and the surrounding community have a lot to offer when it comes to fun leisure activities. Here are just a few ideas.

5 Ways to Take a Break:

1. Visit the Arboretum
2. Take a hike! Mount Nittany is one of many local hiking options.
3. Attend a Penn State sports event
4. Go to the free yoga class at UHS (T, W, R @ 4 pm in 205 Student Health Center)
5. Check out a performance through the Penn State School of Theatre

Like most universities, sexual violence is a major concern at Penn State. To help educate students about sexual violence, UPUA is hosting Fall Action Week. One of the goals of the week is to raise awareness about this topic. Attend an event and learn more about what you can do to promote safe and healthy sexual relationships in the Penn State Community.

Here’s a list of what’s going on:

• Discussion on Sexual Violence – Monday, November 16 at 8 pm, in 129 B&C HUB.
• Information Table – Monday, November 16, Tuesday, November 17, and Wednesday, November 18 at 11 am to 3 pm in the HUB
• “The Line” -Wednesday, November 18 at 7:30 pm in the State Theatre, Downtown State College. The Line is a personal documentary exploring sexual boundaries and consent. Following the screening, there will be a discussion panel with the director, Nancy Schwartzman.

It has been known for some time that heavy alcohol consumption increases risk of cancer. However, the link between light to moderate drinking and cancer risk has been unclear. A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that women who consume one to two drinks per day had an increase risk of breast cancer. To decrease your future risk of cancer, consider reducing your alcohol intake or abstaining from alcohol completely.

http://www.bmj.com/content/351/bmj.h4238