Over the last several years gambling has invaded college campuses nationwide. The most prevalent form of gambling, sports betting, continues to dig deep into the pockets of highly vulnerable college students. This illegal activity tends to undermine sports and leads to scandal and even punishment by law, if the culprits can be caught.

Sports betting is considered the most popular form of gambling in the United States (Worsnop 248). On college campuses, where money is low and much desired, students will sometimes go to great lengths to bulk up their wallets. Gambling, which on the surface seems to be quick and easy money, is a poor solution that many college students are making. But, as T. Layden, a writer for Sports Illustrated points out, "There is hurt on every level of the gambling process."

One level that frequently pops up in NCAA scandals is the student-athlete. These student athletes who offer advice, fix games through point-shaving, or place wagers on games jeopardize their school's reputation, their eligibility, or even their career (Layden 48). College athletes are always in need of money, which gamblers can offer in exchange to influence a game (Layden 53). As one Arizona

Although sports gambling is a recognized problem, it will continue to thrive on college campuses. In order for universities to thwart the problems caused by sports gambling, holding classes and seminars for students and student-athletes should increase awareness. The NCAA needs to take a serious look at the problem and crack down on on- and off-campus bookmaking rings. Although, it may be fun and increase the excitement of watching the home team play, students need to realize that the only real outcome of sports gambling is trouble.

This big money is what attracts the other level of college sports gambling, the student bettor. College students are more vulnerable than most groups due to the accessibility of cash and social environment full of peer pressure (Layden 53). According to a study by Steven Oster and Terry Knapp, which was published in the June 1998 edition of College Student Journal, nearly 6% of college students are pathological gamblers. Once this betting begins it is difficult to stop, whether ahead or behind.

These student bookies, another level of the college sports gambling problem, often have rings of illegal bookmaking by students who place bets on a variety sporting events (Knapp 289). Bookmakers can make a decent living due to the large interest of stud

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