Ideally, colleges and universities would enforce their policies in a consistent manner. Unfortunately, they can sometimes use policies and regulations to target individuals. If you're a student or employee and your school's administration is going after you, you need to be proactive in responding to the charges and defending yourself.
This is because disciplinary action carries an incredibly high cost. It may affect your ability to get internships, fellowships, and even jobs. Relationships started at school do not end at graduation, and misconduct accusations can have long-standing, negative implications for your reputation.
Evidence
If you believe you're being singled out, you need to provide evidence to show the school is not enforcing policies in a consistent manner. Saying "that's not fair" isn't enough.
For example, take social media activity. Schools will use what you post online against you in an investigation, even if the content was posted outside of school hours or off school property.
If your social media profile is being used against you, you may want to show that other students or faculty make similar posts without penalty. This tactic is not to get others in trouble but to highlight how the administration is not uniformly enforcing its policies.
Inconsistent Enforcement
Let's say you did violate a policy, such as academic misconduct. If you have violated a policy, it's all the more important you show inconsistent enforcement.
For example, you fail to cite your sources for a research paper. Your professor reports you for plagiarism. This professor usually gives students the option to revise the paper with proper citations before reporting students for academic misconduct. In your case, however, he does not offer you this option.
In this situation, while you did violate a policy, you were not given the same opportunity as others to correct the mistake.
Harassment
If a teacher or other employee of the school is singling you out, avoid being alone with that individual. Try to have witnesses present at all times. When possible, communicate through email, text, or other channels that will create a written record of your interactions.
If you're being targeted for certain characteristics, such as your sexuality, gender, or race, you may want to look into anti-discrimination laws. Likewise, your school may have its own anti-discrimination policies.
If your school has anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies as part of its manual, use the listed reporting mechanisms. In some cases, failure to report abuse or harassment may limit your ability to seek damages.
Experienced College and University Defense
If your school administration is targeting you, you need an advocate who will help you contest the charges and minimize any damage to your reputation and future. You want to provide evidence and show inconsistent enforcement of school policies or the failure to stop harassment or bullying.
If you're a student or employee at a college or university and are being unlawfully targeted, contact the Lento Law Firm. They represent clients nationwide. Call 888-535-3686 or contact us online.
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