Meriam Ahmad

In the hushed corners of university libraries and bustling student centers, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, serving as both an intellectual stimulant and a comforting companion for college students burning the midnight oil. The love affair between college life and coffee is clear and profound, and the numbers are brewing a story that’s hard to ignore. 

According to the 2023 National Coffee Data Trends Specialty Coffee Breakout Report from the National Coffee Association, 52% of US consumers aged 18 and above reported consuming specialty coffee in the preceding week. This jumped to 62% among individuals aged 25 to 39. As a result, specialty coffee consumption in the United States reached a five-year high this year. Students have increasingly grown obsessed with the elixir of caffeine; coffee shops are ubiquitous on campuses throughout the country. The availability of coffee has never been greater.

A research article published in Clinical Nutrition indicates a whopping 92% of college students regularly consume caffeine. This statistic, derived from a poll of 1,248 U.S. college students, highlights the rise coffee consumption within the college demographic. But as this love affair with caffeine deepens, it raises concerns about its potential health hazards, particularly for young adults.

Research conducted by Alberta Health Services warns that regular consumption of more than 600 mg of caffeine per day can lead to long-term effects, including sleep problems, thinning of bones, an increased risk of fractures, heightened anxiety, and stomach acidity. These findings cast a shadow over the beloved beverage and urge students to consider the consequences of their coffee-infused lifestyles.

Even though the cost of a cup of coffee is frequently dismissed as a tiny drop in the ocean of student expenses, it has a peculiar significance. This caffeinated elixir is not just a sensory treat but also an expensive commitment, costing on average $2 to $5 every cup. 

At the campus cafeteria, where the aroma of freshly made coffee is only one order away, many students, including those at Penn State Abington, can be seen waiting in line. And for those looking for alternatives beyond the campus grounds, the allure of Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks is hard to resist, when these giant coffee chains are nestled within a mere two-mile radius of Penn State Abington. 

Yet, the relationship between college students and their coffee is a complex one, for it extends beyond the mere desire for caffeine. Coffee, for many, has become a trusty companion  due to the increased benefits. According to Healthline Nutrition, where they give multiple statistics on how coffee can boost energy levels, lower risk of type 2 diabetes, Could support brain health, Linked to a lower risk of depression, and so much more.

While coffee remains the go-to choice for many, there are other options that have been gaining traction as students seek ways to stay alert and focused without the sometimes unwelcome side effects of excess caffeine. While some students continue to clutch their steaming cups of coffee, others prefer herbal teas, protein drinks, mindful practices, nutrient-rich concoctions, and various supplements in their quest to strike the perfect balance between academic success and well-being.

As we dive into the world of coffee and college, we’ll explore the delicate balance between consumption and consequences. Are students genuinely turning to coffee as a study aid, and if so, what are the actual and perceived academic benefits? While coffee has undoubtedly found a place in the college experience, it’s crucial for students to make informed choices and consider the holistic impact on their well-being as they navigate their academic journeys.