You are sitting in the writing lab, trying to meet a deadline for
a paper, when you hear a cell phone ring.The owner of the phone answers
it, and then continues to have a lengthy conversation with the caller.
Your concentration is broken.
This experience is all too familiar to many students on the Palo Alto
campus. Sometimes students find themselves frustrated and wondering where
have all of the manners gone.
Here are five simple rules that can help make Palo Alto College better for you, as well as for your fellow students:
RULE #1: BE COURTEOUS WITH CELL PHONE USAGE!
When students enter a classroom or a study area, they should either turn
their cell phone off completely, or turn the ringer to vibrate. If there
is the possibility of an urgent call, the student should notify the professor
before class starts, and discreetly leave the class to answer it.
RULE # 2: USE APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE!
Every individual has guidelines for what language they believe to be appropriate
in a public setting. Some students feel that the use of curse words, and
holding conversations of adult content, is acceptable because they are
adults. Often though, the person overhearing this type of conversation
finds it offensive and totally inappropriate. You should move the conversation
to a private area, or abstain from these types of conversations while
on campus.
“I am often forced to move to a different table in the Student Center
because of other students talking loudly. They curse, and even talk about
their sex life,” said Ben Stephenson, a sophomore who is majoring
in Business.
RULE # 3: PARTICIPATE WITH LIMITS!
Class participation is very important to many of the classes at Palo Alto
College. In fact, many professors require it, making participation a percentage
of your grade. There is an appropriate level of participation that you
should be aware of during class. If you think that you are dominating
the class, or teaching it, then you should rest your voice for a while
and allow others the chance to become involved.
RULE # 4: BE PUNCTUAL!
Walking into class late not only distracts the instructor, but it also
distracts your fellow students. Showing up on time for class and being
ready to begin class is a great way to earn extra participation points.
Tardiness is addressed in many professors’ syllabi. Think of it this
way: School is a job. Would you show up to work late?
RULE # 5: CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF!
Whether you are in the library, Student Center, a lab, or even the restroom,
always leave the space looking as though you were never there. Many students
use these facilities every day, and it is very inconsiderate to leave
a mess that someone else has to clean up.
The Golden Rule, “Treat others as you wish to be treated,” is
respected by a wide range of world cultures and religions. By applying
this rule to our everyday lives, our quality of life on campus will only
improve.
Here are some sites that may be helpful to you: