It was recently discovered that students and gambling have developed a unique relationship.

Coming from a group of individuals that usually has such a low financial standard of living, college students have fractured the stereotype with this new interest.

Last week, a gambling study conducted at Iowa State was released. It showed an increase in student gambling. While more students are becoming indebted to the ever-present credit card, a new type of disposable income has been created.

Students gamble with the hope of a quick-fix, “Baby needs a new Power Ranger” kind of mentality this pastime presents.

Spending priorities are whacked at the college level. How often do you find yourself holding off on a necessity to indulge on a luxury?

“Four dollars for a box of cereal? No way. I’ll take the cheap stuff.”

At the same time you may spend $4.75 on a pitcher of beer that weekend or $2.75 on a cup of coffee at your favorite coffee house.

We seem to sacrifice where sacrifice isn’t necessary. Our pockets run thin with the feelings of remorse, while our CD collections become extensive.

It’s too bad that gambling has come into the picture at this point. Students don’t need the weight of a false hope that gambling presents when used in an irresponsible manner.

A house budget for a weekend trip to a casino would seem more logical or feasible than receiving a paycheck that is spent at the crap table, while bills pile up on the kitchen table.

No money is free money. The old adage, “what comes around, goes around” comes to mind as students spend what they do not have.

Use the experience of college as the learning experience it deserves. One doesn’t need the added burden of gambling debts to hinder the demanding practice of education.

Chances of winning are not worth the risks involved.

Gamble responsibly. And treat yourself to a good box of cereal for a change.