From the inside of college life it's hard to tell that 21 is the drinking age. Or that drugs are illegal. And that's because Cornell is not obligated to tell the real police about any laws you may break on its grounds (although if you kill someone, they sure will).

Effectively, you can pretty much do whatever drugs you like on Cornell campus. If you get caught, you'll get JA-ed. That means you'll get some community service. The punishment also likely includes substance abuse classes, so if you find that stuff particularly odious, use caution. If you have enough violations, you might get kicked out of the dorms- but that is very, very rare.

Smoking
You may notice that the tops to cases of burnable CDs fit perfectly over the fire alarms. Apparently this, uh, works.   At least in the high rises.  This is not recommended. (hi lawyer people!) Fire alarms in the dorms go off pretty easily, so honestly, go outside. Also, weed is super noticeable and people WILL tattle on you if it smells like it in the dorm. 

Drinking in your room
No matter how friendly your RA (residential adviser) is, do NOT invite them in the room if you are drinking. Duh, but you can't even count how many people have been caught that way. Technically, you aren't allowed to have alcohol in the room if you're under 21, but just don't draw attention to the room and you'll be fine.

Harder things
They're generally easier to hide, so you're okay unless the CUPD searches your room for some other reason. Like smelling weed.

This is the first of a three part series.  See the following articles on copyright infringement and violence.