Marijuana use is more socially accepted today than ever before. With increasing legalization and shifting cultural attitudes, many students may see it as a harmless habit. However, research suggests that while marijuana does not necessarily cause significant cognitive decline, it can have long-term effects on educational attainment and socioeconomic outcomes—factors that are crucial for students at Governor State University.

Studies indicate that adolescent marijuana use is linked to lower educational attainment. According to a study using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1997 (NLSY97), individuals who used marijuana during high school were significantly less likely to earn a bachelor’s degree compared to non-users. The frequency of use played a major role—students who used marijuana regularly showed a steeper decline in academic achievement than occasional users.

While marijuana does not necessarily reduce intelligence, it can impact motivation, concentration, and academic performance. Many students who use marijuana report feeling less engaged with their studies, which can lead to lower grades, missed deadlines, and decreased retention of information.

Interestingly, the negative effects of marijuana use are not the same for everyone. Students from high-income or well-educated families tend to experience fewer setbacks because they often have access to resources that help them recover from academic struggles. Students from lower-income backgrounds or first-generation college students—a large portion of GSU’s student body—are more vulnerable to the long-term effects of early marijuana use.

In essence, if you come from a background where higher education is your pathway to upward mobility, regular marijuana use may add extra challenges to your academic journey.

Although marijuana laws have evolved, the effects of past drug policies still linger. The War on Drugs disproportionately impacted Black and Hispanic communities, leading to higher rates of incarceration for drug-related offenses. While racial disparities in educational outcomes persist, research surprisingly found that Black marijuana users did not experience significantly worse educational setbacks compared to White users—once family and economic factors were considered.

Still, stigma and legal consequences surrounding marijuana use can have lasting effects. Many universities and workplaces still conduct drug tests, and even in legal states, marijuana use can limit job opportunities in fields requiring background checks or federal employment.

While GSU fosters an inclusive and progressive environment, students should be aware of the potential consequences of marijuana use beyond the immediate effects. Whether it’s difficulty concentrating in class, struggling to complete assignments, or facing professional barriers after graduation, the decision to use marijuana should be made with a clear understanding of its impact on future success.

If you’re struggling with focus or stress, consider healthier alternatives such as yoga, meditation, or university mental health resources. The choices you make now can shape your long-term academic and professional path.

The conversation around marijuana continues to evolve, but education remains key. Before making a decision, consider not only the health aspects but also the academic and social consequences that may come with regular use. At GSU, students have the power to shape their futures, and informed choices today can lead to greater success tomorrow.