By LEO ROBLES
Opinion Editor
Coffee has become a ubiquitous part of student culture, serving as a fuel for late-night study sessions, early morning classes and everything in between. Its impact on students is multifaceted, with both positive and negative aspects that can influence academic performance, social interactions and overall well-being.
I usually start my mornings with some toast, fruit and coffee. I am not really a coffee buyer, but I prefer to make my own coffee at home.
During road trips, I always try to have some coffee at the gas stations, but every now and then I have some energy drinks.
On the positive side, coffee is widely recognized for its stimulating effects.
Caffeine, the active ingredient in coffee, is a well-documented cognitive enhancer. It can improve focus, alertness, and concentration, making it particularly appealing to students facing the demands of rigorous coursework and tight deadlines.
For many, a cup of coffee can mean the difference between a productive study session, and one spent fighting off drowsiness.
The ritual of brewing and sipping coffee also provides a comforting routine, helping students establish a conducive environment for studying.
Coffee shops have become popular gathering places for students, offering a relaxed atmosphere conducive to group study sessions or casual meet-ups. These spaces often serve as hubs for collaboration, creativity and networking.
The communal aspect of coffee drinking can enhance friendships and create a sense of belonging, which is particularly valuable for students navigating the often stressful landscape of academia.
However, the impact of coffee is not entirely positive. While moderate consumption can enhance alertness, excessive use can lead to side effects such as anxiety, insomnia and jitteriness.
For students already dealing with stress, the added pressure of caffeine can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and make it difficult to relax. Moreover, the reliance on coffee for energy can create dependency, where students feel they cannot function without it.
This reliance may lead to irregular sleep patterns, which can ultimately harm academic performance and overall health.
I personally think that coffee does not always provide an energy boost at all. There has been occasions where it has made me feel more tired or the caffeine does not kick in at all.
Additionally, the social pressure to consume coffee can create an unhealthy mindset. In a culture that often glorifies hustle and overwork, students may feel compelled to drink coffee to keep up with peers, leading to an unhealthy normalization of sleep deprivation and stress.
This “grind culture” can discourage students from prioritizing their mental and physical health, which is crucial during their formative years.
Another concern is the economic aspect of coffee consumption. For many students, purchasing coffee daily can add up, straining tight budgets.
While a small luxury may seem harmless, over time, those costs can divert funds from essential expenses, such as textbooks or meals.
