Gambling has become an increasingly common activity among students, often taking place in classrooms at TCS and social settings.

For many, gambling starts as a game, guided by excitement and peer pressure. The recent popularity of sports betting apps and online platforms has made it easier than ever for students to place bets at any time, including during school hours.

“I started gambling this year. At first, it was just for fun with friends, and it wasn’t really about the money, just the fun of it,” Emilio Medina, senior, said.

Medina primarily engages in online betting and card games, both popular among students for their accessibility. However, gambling can interfere with academics as students prioritize bets over classwork.

“Sometimes I check my bets in class instead of paying attention, and I’ve rushed through assignments just so I could focus on bets,” Medina said.

For some, gambling shifts from entertainment to stress. Thomas Bernal, a senior, realized the issue when he started using personal money for small bets with friends.

“At first, it’s exciting, and mostly when you have small wins that make you think you can win more. But if I lose, I feel frustrated, and sometimes I just want to bet again to win back my money,” Bernal said.

Some peer influences make gambling an addiction. Peer pressure and the convenience of online betting keep many students engaged despite recognizing the risks of losing money and not being able to stop doing it.

“I’ve tried to stop, but I keep making small bets that make me think I am not losing as much money. And since it’s so easy with online betting, it’s always tempting,” Tomas Arrubla, senior, said.

Media and sports culture also fuel student gambling. Social media influencers frequently promote betting, making it seem appealing and normal.

“A lot of people bet because of influencers who talk about betting. Plus, if all your friends are doing it, it’s easy to get involved,” Arrubla said.

The consequences of extreme gambling vary. While some gamble casually, others experience financial stress, resorting to borrowing money and making risky bets.

“I’ve seen people lose more than they can afford. Some get really stressed out, and others start borrowing money from friends just to keep playing,” Arrubla said.

With gambling becoming a regular part of student life, addressing the issue requires awareness, support services, and school policies. Students struggling with gambling are encouraged to seek help before it escalates.

“Just be careful. It starts off as a game, but it can become something you feel like you have to do,” Medina mentioned.