No student should allow a single poor choice or momentary bad judgment to derail their college career and change the course of their life.
That’s always true, but it’s especially good advice when it comes to Spring Weekend.
Many UConn students have worked hard over the past year to develop fun and safe events, including the Student Alumni Association’s 26th Annual Oozeball Tournament, which is being combined with initiatives from the Residence Hall Association and the Student Union Board of Governors to create an all-day “Oozapalooza.”
At the same time, there are several unsanctioned events that occur at area apartment complexes. These gatherings often revolve around drinking and inappropriate, sometimes destructive, behavior. They are not in any way endorsed or supported by UConn. They are unpredictable and can be dangerous.
Yet many of those who attend Spring Weekend are not students, but visitors from off-campus. Anyone who plans on coming to UConn for Spring Weekend this year should be aware of the additional steps UConn is taking to help ensure safety: university and state police will set up numerous DUI checkpoints both on campus and on the roads surrounding the campus. There will also be roving DUI patrols throughout the area, and certain roads and parking lots on campus will be blocked or closed through the weekend. Parking and travel on campus will be heavily restricted. This is in addition to the usual strong police presence.
Anyone who breaks the law is subject to arrest. It’s that simple. It may be best to make other plans that weekend, rather than risking injury or spending the night – or more – in a jail cell.
Behaviors that endanger others and damage or destroy public or personal property will be confronted and addressed by university and state police, the courts, the university judicial process, or all three.
In particular, severe violations of the law and of the code, such as physical assault, arson, driving under the influence, or the illegal distribution of alcohol or drugs will lead to students being suspended or expelled from the University. Expulsion is permanent and expensive.
Students come to UConn, first and foremost, to receive an excellent education. But also for a chance to be part of the campus community, to enrich their lives, pursue their personal goals, and yes – to have fun and enjoy the company of their fellow students. It would be so unfortunate to lose that chance because of one mistake, or being in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
UConn students are adults who can make their own decisions and who are responsible for their own actions; those who choose to attend Spring Weekend are free to enjoy themselves, but above all they should be smart – and safe.
The best way to avoid the consequences of mistakes is not to make mistakes in the first place.
‘Viewpoint’ is commentary written by UConn Today staff on issues at the University and in higher education nationwide.
