To the Editor:
A number of articles have recently appeared in The Spectrum, Generation and The Buffalo News about students in University Heights. The vast majority of students who live in University Heights are considerate, respectful and do not cause any problems. However, a small percentage of students are creating problems for the neighborhood and are giving other students an undeserved, negative reputation. If you fall into the latter category, please consider the following:
When you move off campus, you join an existing community. As a college student, this is probably an interim or temporary home. However, many of your neighbors are permanent residents who take pride in their community and who will remain in their homes long after you have graduated and moved on. Think of your off-campus apartment as your second hometown. What does a second hometown conjure up for you? It is probably a place with some of the same characteristics that most people value: familiar faces, safety, comfort and a sense of community. The basic rules are simple; treat your second hometown as you would your first hometown. When people fail to respect one another or act without consideration of others, it is the beginning of a downhill spiral to a place no one would ever choose to live. Don't contribute to that kind of behavior and don't let your friends and other students behave here in a way you or your family wouldn't tolerate back home. As you live in your off-campus apartment, think of your neighbors as you would your own family. Consider whether your family in your first hometown would want to be your neighbor in your second hometown.
Your activities off campus shape your neighbors' image of all college students. If you are a member of a fraternity or sorority, negative behavior also influences your neighbors' impressions of all Greek letter societies. This is particularly true if you host a party at your house. According to City of Buffalo ordinances, the following actions are illegal: noise that annoys or disturbs the comfort, repose, peace or safety of others; trash that is not properly removed and contained; serving alcohol to anyone under age 21; and charging admission to a party (deemed to be selling alcohol without a license). Violators are subject to fines and possible incarceration. Furthermore, University Police, the Office of Judicial Affairs, and the dean of students, are notified of any illegal student conduct off campus, which means that illegal activities off campus may be prosecuted on campus as a violation of the Student Conduct Code. Depending on the offense, sanctions range from community service hours to suspension from the University.
The University Heights is a vibrant, diverse community. If you are a student living in the community, make sure you do your part to make the area a desirable place for everyone to live in peace and harmony.
