What happens if you get in trouble at CU Boulder?
College comes with opportunities to learn, grow and navigate new experiences. Sometimes, that includes making mistakes or facing challenging situations.
If you’re referred to CU Boulder’s Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) for a potential violation of the Student Code of Conduct, you may have questions about what happens next. SCCR helps students understand the conduct process, take accountability when appropriate and learn from their experiences.
Here’s what to expect from the student conduct process and how SCCR can support you along the way.
What happens when you receive a student conduct referral?
Students may be referred to SCCR following incidents involving underage drinking, noise complaints or other potential Student Code of Conduct violations. Referrals may come from sources including CU Police and Boulder Police.
If you’re referred to SCCR, you’ll receive an email with information about scheduling a resolution meeting. Review the email carefully and follow the instructions provided.
Receiving a referral doesn’t automatically mean you’ve been found responsible for a violation. The conduct process provides an opportunity to review what happened, share your perspective and determine appropriate next steps.
What happens during a resolution meeting?
During your resolution meeting, you’ll have an opportunity to discuss the incident, share your perspective and ask questions. A resolution specialist will explain the conduct process and help you understand what happens next.
SCCR approaches the conduct process as an opportunity for learning and personal growth. Resolution specialists encourage students to reflect on their experiences, consider how their choices may affect others and identify ways to move forward.
If you’re found responsible for a Student Code of Conduct violation, you may be assigned outcomes based on the circumstances. These outcomes are intended to encourage accountability, support learning and help students make informed decisions moving forward.
Depending on the situation, outcomes may include:
- Educational workshops
- Restorative Justice programs
- Other educational or disciplinary actions
Your resolution specialist can explain any assigned outcomes and answer questions about completing them.
How can Restorative Justice help repair harm?
Restorative Justice is one way SCCR helps students take accountability, understand the impact of their actions and work toward repairing harm.
If you’re referred to a Restorative Justice program, you may have opportunities to work with others affected by an incident, such as roommates, neighbors or staff, to develop a plan for moving forward.
Depending on the situation, restorative activities may include:
- Volunteering in the community
- Writing letters of apology
- Supporting the Buff Pantry
- Sharing experiences with peers
Even if Restorative Justice isn’t part of your conduct process, reflecting on your experiences and considering how to make things right can help you learn and grow.
Have questions about the student conduct process?
SCCR can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, answer questions about the conduct process and connect you with campus resources.
Visit the Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution website or email studentconduct@colorado.edu to learn more.