Living in college or university housing comes with a lot of responsibility. In addition to attending classes and studying for exams, students who live on campus are also expected to adhere to their school's residential community conduct guidelines. These guidelines are put in place to ensure that all students have a positive and safe living experience. Violating those guidelines can open you to discipline from the university.
What many students are not aware of is that violating school code of conduct policies can be serious offenses that can put a student's reputation with their college in jeopardy. If students are suspected of violating conduct guidelines, the school could hold disciplinary hearings to determine fault. If students are found guilty at these hearings, sanctions could include everything from probation or suspension to expulsion.
Following is a list of general residential conduct guidelines that are commonly imposed upon students by higher education institutions:
Be Respectful Regarding Visitors
There are several reasons why colleges and universities have policies in place regarding having visitors on campus. These policies exist to ensure the safety of all students who live in university housing.
Allowing unlimited visitors on campus could create security risks, as well as overcrowding issues. Additionally, if everyone were allowed to have houseguests staying with them for extended periods of time, it would be difficult for campus staff to get to know the students living in their buildings.
Most schools have similar policies when it comes to having visitors on campus overnight. Typically, students are allowed to have one guest stay with them for up to three nights per week. Guests must usually register with the campus office and may be required to show identification.
Some schools require that visitors sign in and out of the building, while others provide visitors with a key or access card that allows them to come and go as they please. Be sure to check your school's specific policies on this so that you can make arrangements accordingly.
Keep the Noise Down
When it comes to noise specifically, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, remember that sound carries easily in dorms. This means that even if you're not being intentionally loud, your neighbor might still be able to hear you. So, try to be conscious of the noise you're making and keep it at a minimum late at night or early in the morning. You can get into trouble with the school for repeated noise violations.
Be Aware of Your School's Alcohol and Drug Policy
The vast majority of schools prohibit the use of illegal drugs on campus. This includes illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, etc. The consequences for breaking this rule can be severe, including suspension or expulsion from the school.
Alcohol is sometimes allowed on college campuses if the students have reached the legal drinking age of 21, but there are typically rules and regulations surrounding its use. For example, many schools have a “dry campus” policy, which means that no alcohol is allowed anywhere on campus property. Other schools allow alcohol in certain areas, such as dormitories or fraternities/sororities, but not in others, such as classrooms or libraries. Additionally, most schools have a “zero tolerance” policy when it comes to alcohol consumption by minors (those under 21 years of age). This means that if you are caught drinking underage, you will likely face disciplinary action from your school.
Follow Environmental Waste Disposal Guidelines
Properly handling hazardous waste is important for two reasons. First, it protects you and your fellow residents from potential harm. Second, it helps to keep your living environment clean and safe for everyone. Improperly disposing of environmental waste can put you, other students, and school property at risk. It can also put you at risk of disciplinary action by your school.
There are three main categories of hazardous waste: liquid, solid, and electrical. Here are some tips for properly dealing with each type of waste:
- Liquid hazardous waste: This includes things like cleaning products, paint thinners, and items like shampoo and laundry detergent. Liquid hazardous waste should be poured down the sink with the tap running until it is diluted to a safe level. It should never be poured into a toilet or storm drain.
- Solid hazardous waste: This includes things like batteries, light bulbs, and medications. Solid hazardous waste should be placed in a sealed container and taken to your local hazardous waste collection facility. Never put solid hazardous waste in the trash.
- Electrical hazardous waste: This includes things like laptops, cell phones, and cameras. Electrical equipment that is no longer working should be taken to your local Hazardous Waste Collection Facility. If the equipment is still working, but you no longer need it, you can donate it to a local thrift store or recycle it at a designated collection site.
Don't Fight
There are several specific reasons you should avoid fights while living in university or college housing. First and foremost, fights can lead to injuries. Even if you don't intend to hurt someone, punches can be thrown, and bones can be broken. Second, fighting can damage property. Walls can be punched, furniture can be broken, and windows can be shattered. Third, fights can result in disciplinary action from your school. This could include being kicked out of your dorm and/or expelled from school altogether. Finally, getting into a fight can damage your reputation and make it hard to make friends.
Get Legal Help If You're In Trouble for Residential Conduct Violations
Violating your school's residential conduct rules can get you into trouble. You could face anything from a stern warning to expulsion, depending on the seriousness of the offense. The more serious the offense, the more damage it will do to your academic standing.
If you violate your school's code of conduct, that information could end up on your permanent record. That could make it difficult for you to get accepted into another school if you're expelled. Even if you're not expelled, it could still destroy your reputation at your school, affecting your current school life and tainting your experiences beyond school.
Joseph D. Lento and the team at the Lento Law Firm have years of experience defending students facing disciplinary action from their colleges or universities, and they know what to do to help ensure that these students have the best chance of success. They do everything, including prepping students for disciplinary hearings, helping with the investigatory process, and providing students and parents with information regarding what to expect from the process.
Contact Joseph Lento and the rest of the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686. Your future depends on it.
