by Natalie Stewart

Sometimes, university can feel overwhelming. Assignments can be stressful, time-consuming to complete, and a low grade can be discouraging. When under immense pressure, students may be tempted to neglect the rules of Academic Integrity.

Academic Integrity refers to the ethical practices that make university “fair” for everyone. It includes policies on cheating, plagiarism, and fabrication.

If a student violates the rules of Academic Integrity, there can be serious consequences. He or she might face academic penalties, such as a failing grade or a suspension from the university.

Students who “break the rules” are often confident they will not get caught. To maintain Academic Integrity, it helps to remember the old saying, “cheaters never prosper.” People who cheat always pay for it in the end–even if they don’t get caught.

By taking the “easy way out,” a student loses an opportunity to increase their knowledge and writing skills. Consequently, the next assignment they are given will be even more difficult. Later, if the student graduates, they may not be qualified for the job they are seeking.

Not all assignments are directly relevant to a particular job, but they are intended to increase a student’s cognitive abilities, which will help them succeed in the working world. Academic integrity also builds personal integrity, a character trait that any future employer will value.

Staying honest means you will have to work harder than those who don’t, but you will feel much better about yourself when you receive your final grade.

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