Police and the University of Otago are warning students not
to ''overdo it'' this O-Week, with those who misbehave
risking serious consequences - including exclusion from the
university.
Otago University director of student services David
Richardson said the university's message to students was to
have fun, ''but don't overdo it''.
''Don't do anything that you will come to regret in the cold
light of day and keep ever present in your mind that alcohol
can lead to bad judgements,'' Mr Richardson said.
The ''minority'' of students who did take part in
''antisocial'' behaviour would likely end up in the office of
the proctor, who had the power to issue fines of up to $500.
More serious cases were referred to the provost and could end
with the vice-chancellor excluding a student from the
university.
''Students need to be clear about the code of conduct, as the
university takes very seriously any antisocial behaviours
such as fire-lighting, bottle-throwing or coercive behaviours
that encourage other people into risky situations,'' he said.
Dunedin-Clutha area commander Inspector Greg Sparrow said
most students had ''a great time'' without crossing the line
during Orientation Week.
''However, there will always be a small minority who spoil it
for themselves and others,'' Insp Sparrow said. His message
to students and non-students who did step out of line was
that the police would always take ''some sort of enforcement
action'' if they broke the law - which included making
arrests.
Police had not encountered many problems as students trickled
back to the city over the last few weeks, he said.
Mr Richardson said students concerned about their safety on
campus or when walking home could call Campus Watch on
479-5000.
He was also keen to remind students to keep their flat's
doors and windows secure and to report any suspicious
behaviour in the student area.
Otago University Students' Association president Francisco
Hernandez' message to students was to think things through
and ''don't be a dick''.
''If it sounds like a bad idea in your head, don't do it.
Listen to that inner voice,'' Mr Hernandez said.
Students could also make use of the support the OUSA offered
at events - which included ''red frog'' tents where free food
and water was on offer.
''We have got plenty of support for people, because we want
to make these events as safe as possible.''
Tips for a good time
• Drink slowly, be in touch with how you are feeling.
• Eat a good meal before drinking alcohol.
• Drink water, before, during, and after drinking
alcohol.
• Stay with friends at all times.
• Leave eftpos card at home. Take cash only to get a taxi
home.
• Understand why you think you might drink too much and get
support to enable you to drink and have fun, not to drink so
much that you don't remember the night.
SOURCE: University of Otago director of student services
David Richardson
- vaughan.elder@odt.co.nz
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.