Pennsylvania college students, like college students across the nation, often find themselves at parties with older students who can drink alcohol. For the students who are considered minors, even smelling like alcohol could result in an underage drinking charge.

Penalties for underage drinking or possession of alcohol can include a license suspension and a heavy fine. Even if it was a mistake or the student just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, the penalties could still apply. But students should also understand that there are penalties for providing minors with alcohol. One football player for Penn State was recently charged with providing alcohol to minors.

The charges were filed yesterday against the college student who is currently a fifth-year senior. The incident that brought about the charges occurred earlier in the summer. The details were not provided in the article, but he was charged specifically with providing alcohol to two minors.

For a student athlete, criminal charges such as this can make an impact on both a personal and professional level. Personally, the football player may be considered to be someone who provides alcohols to underage students. Even if it was a mistake, his reputation could be affected by these accusations.

The criminal charges have already affected him on a professional level. He had been suspended from the football team and only last month rejoined the rest of his teammates. The time off from the squad could affect his performance and play time. Additionally, if he is convicted it will go on his permanent record and could make it more difficult to get the job he wants in the future.

Students should understand the implications of a criminal charge on their future. While it is not the same as a conviction, it can still follow them around for years after the incident occurred.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Penn State tailback charged with furnishing alcohol to minors," Ron Musselman, Sept. 8, 2011