Whether rolled, vaped, or packed, the possibilities are endless when it comes to marijuana. The convenience of some of these options means that it can be tailored to any need, particularly the needs of college students. 

According to the National Institute of Health, marijuana use has continued to reach historically high levels across higher education campuses throughout the United States. Post-pandemic, weed has become a fan favorite among young adults, with 8% of college students reporting ‘daily’ or ‘nearly daily’ use of cannabis in 2020. 

While colleges and universities typically attempt to maintain “dry” or sober campuses, their policies do little to prevent the drug and alcohol use that persists on school grounds. 

“To be honest, I’ve never been worried about smoking near campus,” said senior Amaala Kennedy.“We live in D.C. so it’s legal, and since our campus is open I could easily pass for just any other D.C. native, if necessary. Plus smoking gives me an opportunity to decompress and catch up with my friends while I’m on campus.”

Smoking on campus is a phenomenon that university administrators attempt to tackle each year. Still, weed is popular among students for its sedative effects and convenience. 

On Georgia Avenue, the Shaw landmark that runs along Howard University's campus, there are just shy of 10 dispensaries within walking distance from the base of the plateau to the Hilltop. 

However, Black college students generally report smoking less than their white counterparts. Black students are also paying close attention to the contents of what they are smoking. 

“I knew I was gonna go to college and be presented with weed so I wanted to know what it actually felt like and I wanted to form my own opinion on it before I started relying on everyone else” said a sophomore in the College of Engineering and Architecture.  

At any party, kickback, or other large student gatherings, you’re likely to see young adults passing some form of marijuana back and forth.

Large circles of smokers, sometimes referred to as “cyphs” or “seshes,” are a common way for people to pass the time at parties or other social events.

 “You just have to know your limit… And don't go into it thinking you have to prove anything about it, or smoke as much as your friends,” said freshman Jordan Thomas. “Just do as much as you feel comfortable with, and enjoy whatever comes from it.”

The relief that marijuana offers is appealing to a wide range of people under several different circumstances. Studies show weed can provide short-term relief for individuals suffering from mental health conditions including anxiety and ADHD. The student body at Howard is no different. 

“Maybe I might need marijuana to slow down my brain,” sophomore Brittney-Anne shared. “So, I take a quarter [of an edible] to maybe get something done, do a little studying.”

Everyone’s reasoning for using the notoriously illicit substance varies, but its presence is prevalent nonetheless.