For college resident assistants (RA's) who are supposed to be both enforcers of the rules and allies and defenders of the student residents that they supervise, walking the line between support and supervision can be challenging.

But RA's are called upon to protect other students from the bad behavior—whatever the mitigating factors—of students who cross the line. And passions can run high with college students. But if a student is accused of stalking, hazing, or making threats, they may be at risk of expulsion. With this knowledge, how do RA's balance the psychology of their residents versus the real threat they may pose?

College student misconduct, including stalking, hazing, and threats, can cost a student their college career. Knowing this, it's essential that RA's get their job right and deal with problematic behavior appropriately. Doing otherwise may put their college experience at risk.

Today's Unique Student Population

Today's college students have survived a global pandemic that has had serious psychological side effects. They've been isolated, done distance learning, and “met up” with friends via Zoom or in a video game universe. They've lived a unique and sometimes damaging adolescence. When they arrive at college, it's no surprise that they're confronted with several unique challenges, including limited socialization, emotional immaturity, and inability to read social cues. RA's often have to help this population navigate living in dorms, sharing meals, making friends, and dating. It can be risky for the RA.

Stalking

When a college student behaves in a way that makes the recipient of the behavior feel threatened, that student may be guilty of stalking.

Common examples of stalking include:

• Stealing from the victim
• Damaging the victim's property
• Sending the victim unwanted gifts
• Going to the victim at work
• Following the victim
• Waiting for the victim outside their dorm
• Taking victim photos without permission
• Sending phone, text, email, or written messages
• Sharing the victim's personal information

If an RA knows that such behavior is occurring, it is the RA's responsibility to report it.

Hazing

This crime presents challenges because organizations in the Greek system and athletics have long looked the other way when hazing happens. But as mandatory reporters, RA's are required to escalate cases of hazing that are reported to them.

Threats

Like stalking, threats of physical harm are taken seriously on college campuses. An RA is often privy to information that's passed among students, including threats. In that situation, RA's are required to report that threat or face repercussions, including losing their position as RA or worse.

If you are the parent of an RA who has been accused of a violation involving dismissal for misconduct, the Lento Law Firm can help your student develop the best possible defense and be sure they are given due process. The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help.

Call the Lento Law Firm at (888) 535-3686 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.