Alcohol & Other Drug Information
At SHOP, we’re here to give you honest, evidence-based information about substances like alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, cannabis, and other common drugs—so you can make the choices that are best for you.
We don’t report drug use, which means you can have open, judgment-free conversations with us. (Please note: we are required to report situations involving harm to self or others, or Title IX violations.)
Whether you’re curious, actively using, or exploring sobriety, we’re here to support you. From harm reduction tips and safer use strategies to party planning resources and sober community connections, you’ll find tools to help you stay informed and take care of yourself and others.
Alcohol & Other Drug Facts
If you’re like many students, your education about drugs and alcohol was some variation of “Don’t do it!” or Red Ribbon Week. These “just say no” approaches don’t help us truly understand the risks of substance use or why people might choose to use substances. At the same time, the media often portrays college as a nonstop party scene with heavy drinking and drug use, which can feel isolating if that’s not your experience. The reality is somewhere in the middle. While some students use substances, many abstain or use them infrequently.
37%
UCSC students reported no alcohol use in the last three months.
40%
UCSC students reported cannabis use in the last three months—less than half the student body
10%
Less than 10% used hallucinogens recently.
Alcohol
At UC Santa Cruz, many students choose not to drink—or drink moderately. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or supportive of others, understanding how alcohol affects the body can help you make informed choices and stay safe.
This page shares key info on standard drinks, intoxication, mixing substances, harm reduction, and recognizing when someone needs help. You’ll also find support if you’re thinking about cutting back or just want to talk.
Tobacco and vaping
Whether you’re using tobacco products, thinking about quitting, or just curious about the effects, it helps to have the facts. On this page, you’ll find information about traditional tobacco use, vaping, nicotine’s effects, and tips for cutting back or quitting—plus insight into why people use tobacco and how to support someone who’s trying to stop.
Learn more about short- and long-term effects, addiction, and the resources available at UCSC and beyond to help you take care of yourself or a friend.
Cannabis
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances among college students—but most UCSC students either don’t use it or use it occasionally. Whether you’re a regular user, thinking about trying it, or just want to understand more, this page offers honest, research-backed information to help you make informed choices.
Learn about different methods of use, how to read cannabis labels, potential risks, harm reduction tips, and how cannabis laws apply to students. We also cover addiction, medical use, and how to support yourself or a friend.
Other common drugs
While many UCSC students choose not to use substances beyond alcohol or cannabis, some are curious or experimenting. Understanding how different drugs affect the body—and how to reduce potential risks—is an important part of making informed choices.
This page shares information about a range of commonly used substances, including psychedelics, stimulants, prescription medications, and more. You’ll find facts about how each drug is used, what to expect with occasional or sustained use, and which combinations are especially dangerous—plus links to harm reduction supplies and the Responsible Action Plan (RAP).
