No Consequence for Common Sense

Students flood back into the campus of Plymouth State University anticipating all kinds of adventure, learning and growth, but with all that comes curiosity and mischief. Students at PSU, as individuals, are guaranteed the same rights that every citizen in the United States and the State of New Hampshire are. Students also adhere to the Student Rights and Code of Conduct of Plymouth State University. Over the summer, the Office of Dean of Students reviewed the procedures, rules, and policies in order to provide a clear and concise layout of the student rights granted at PSU. 

It’s safe to say that students may choose to indulge in activities aside from those curricular. It’s expected and anticipated by the University, thus students should take the initiative to be familiar with rights they are given, one of those being the right to enact the amnesty policy. The University’s main concern is the health and safety of the members of the Plymouth State community. Students should always seek immediate medical assistance for themselves or someone else if they are at risk in terms of safety and health. The Office of the Dean of Students recognizes that ‘students may be reluctant to seek assistance for themselves or someone else for fear of facing action’ from the office. 

Essentially, if a student seeks emergency medial attention for themselves or someone else, they will not be charged with violation of the University policy in relation to the consumption of alcohol or other drugs, so long as that student completes an alcohol education program and, or counseling as it is given. 

“The policy, while earnestly attempting to assist the lives of troubled students and avoiding penalty, might inevitably bar students by tacking on the requirement of a subsequent mandatory program(s),” said senior Bobby Costanzo. “The program is indeed purposeful, but some students might find themselves unable to attend or meet its requirements, ultimately leading them to remain alone in handling an issue and thereby escalating the problem.”

Notice that this policy only applies to students who are seeking medical help. It does not apply to students who are discovered by university employees, including university police, residential life staff, and any other PSU faculty member. In addition, this policy is not intended to protect students who repeatedly violate the Student Code of Conduct in terms of the alcohol and drug policies. The hearing officer still has the right to contact the student to discuss the incident, regardless if the medical amnesty policy is in effect. 

“Note: This policy only provides amnesty from violations of the PSU Code of Conduct. It does not grant amnesty for criminal, civil, or legal consequences for violations of federal, state, or local law” –The Office of the Dean of Students

Residential Director Domenica Medaglia-Brown says, “The amnesty policy is intended to encourage students to seek emergency services for themselves or friends by putting students health and safety first.”

Building a community where students share the responsibility of caring for others is what our University strives for and this policy will support that caring and nurturing environment. It’s time to become friendly watchdogs for the Dean of Students Office. Students should be familiar with the many rights they are granted here at Plymouth State University.