December 1, 2020
An alleged violation of your college or university’s regulations regarding student behavior could incur serious punishments, with possible expulsion being the most severe. Before this happens, however, most institutions will hold a disciplinary hearing to determine whether a breach of the rules took place and, if so, how severe the punishment should be.
The disciplinary hearing is an opportunity to present your side of the story. The committee has an obligation to take this into consideration when determining what punishment, if any, you should receive. Therefore, the disciplinary hearing is an opportunity to better your position by presenting yourself and your case well. Vincennes University offers the following tips regarding the disciplinary hearing to their own students, but they could apply just as well to students at other universities.
1. Be on Time
Having received ample notice of the hearing’s date and time from the committee beforehand, make every effort to attend and be on time. Arriving late does not make a favorable impression on the committee. If you fail to attend at all, the hearing may still proceed without the benefit of any additional evidence you have to submit.
2. Tell the Truth
It may be tempting to embellish or exaggerate the facts to improve your position. However, the committee will likely recognize any discrepancies and ask you to account for them.
3. Organize Your Materials Beforehand
You should have the opportunity to present statements or documents supporting your case at the disciplinary hearing. You also have the opportunity to review statements and ask questions. Preparing and organizing these beforehand makes you more ready to present them effectively at the hearing.
In most cases, you need not face the disciplinary hearing alone. You can choose an advisor to assist you. This institution determines who you may choose to serve in this capacity.