Although the survey was anonymous, some students may have misreported their drug use behaviors. Alcohol is the most widely used substance. Seventy-nine percent, or an estimated 25,700 UMCP students, reported alcohol use at least once in the year prior to the survey. Sixty-six percent, or an estimated 21,200 students, reported alcohol use at least once in the month prior to the survey. Marijuana is the most widely used illicit substance.
Inhalants are the third most widely used substance.
The majority of students at each class level have used alcohol. Graduate students are least likely to use alcohol, and juniors and seniors are most likely to use alcohol. The demographic characteristics of respondents in the 1991 and 1994 survey samples are similar. In 1994 more students were familiar with UMCP drug and alcohol policies than in 1991. Student disapproval of underage drinking and alcohol use in general was similar in 1991 and 1994.