What to expect
Framework
We implement an engagement model to help students reflect on past behaviors and build skills to help them be successful in the future.
What happens when we receive a referral?
Student Conduct contacts the student(s)/organization(s) for a meeting with a hearing officer to review the referral and discuss alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct. Students will receive a letter either notifying them of an Agreed-Resolution or Formal Hearing. In that letter, the date, time, and location of meeting is provided, along with information about the incident in question. For more information about Student Conduct’s processes, please refer to the Student Code of Conduct.
Students who need assistance prior to meeting may stop by Student Conduct or contact the Dean of Students Office.
Conduct Referrals from Football Games
Student Conduct staff will be present at all home football games to review and process referrals related to alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct in real time. They will be there to explain necessary next steps about the Student Conduct process and answer any questions.
Afterwards, Student Conduct staff will meet with students who receive conduct referrals during football games to resolve the matter, most often within one week of the incident. There will be a designated time for these meetings, which will be communicated to students after the incident is referred to the office.
For Parents
Though parents don't like to think about it, students sometimes make mistakes and get into trouble. If your student has had to enter the student conduct process, it can be a stressful and heightened experience for everyone involved. Below are some ways you can help your student get through the conduct process and learn and grow from the experience.
- Speak with your student regarding the situation. Make sure that you listen carefully and critically.
- Have an open discussion with your student about the process of making decisions that are consistent with their values, personal code of ethics, and future goals.
- Assist your student in taking responsibility for their actions and avoid blaming others for the consequences that resulted from their choices.
- Make sure your student knows clearly what you expect and what you value.
- Remember that your student will look to you as a role model for dealing with and responding to conflict.
- Be open to discussing difficult topics, such as substance abuse, intimate relationships, and other risky behavior when your student has been accused of violating the Virginia Tech Student Code of Conduct.
- Make sure your student knows the conduct process. Your student should review the Student Code of Conduct.
- Discuss with your student your expectations for their behavior at Virginia Tech. Discuss ways your student can modify their behavior to meet those expectations.
- Brainstorm with your student appropriate resources for help and support (e.g., alcohol education, personal counseling, etc.).
- Let your student know where you stand regarding their behavior, while continuing to support them emotionally.
- Brainstorm with your student ways to overcome past mistakes.
- Be firm in your approach, but always keep the lines of communication open.