Consequences of Plagiarism: What Happens When You Are Caught for the Second Time in College

Plagiarism is a serious academic offense that can have severe repercussions. It is not uncommon for students to face strict penalties if caught for the second time. This article outlines the potential outcomes based on the rules of your university, professor, and the amount of plagiarism involved. Readers will learn about the consequences and why it is always better to submit honest work than to engage in plagiarism.

The Severity of Plagiarism Penalties

When a student is caught plagiarizing for the first time, the penalties can vary widely depending on the policies of the institution and the professor. Here is a detailed look at the potential consequences:

Potential Penalties for First Offenses:

Partial reduction on the assignment grade: This is generally considered too lenient and may not reflect the seriousness of the offense. Zero on the assignment with an opportunity to redo for partial credit: This option is also too lenient and may not adequately address the issue. Reduction of final course grade: This can significantly impact a student's academic standing. Automatic fail for the entire course: A severe punishment that ends the student's participation in the course. Being kicked out of the course: This may go hand-in-hand with the automatic fail. Reporting to the office for further disciplinary action: This can lead to additional sanctions such as academic integrity probation. Academic integrity probation: This probation can follow the student throughout their academic career and potentially jeopardize future opportunities. Suspension from the university: A serious consequence that keeps a student from returning for a certain period. Permanent expulsion: The most severe punishment, resulting in no opportunity for re-admittance.

My Perspective as a College Instructor

As a future college instructor, if I were to face a student who deliberately plagiarized, my approach would be decisive and without room for second chances. Here is the approach I would take:

Assign an 'F' for the whole course: This would clearly communicate the severity of the offense. Drop the student from the class: Removing the student from the class would prevent any future issues. Report the student to the university dean's office: This would ensure that the student faces further disciplinary action.

How My University Treats Academic Dishonesty

At North Carolina State University (NCSU), where I am currently a student majoring in statistics (ST), the department takes academic integrity incredibly seriously. Here are some of the policies in place:

Any form of cheating, including plagiarism, on assessments and projects will result in an automatic fail for the entire course. A report to the dean's office will follow, leading to academic integrity probation that can affect the student's academic record for the next four years. The consequences are severe and do not offer any second chances, excuses, or exceptions.

The message is clear: no form of academic dishonesty is acceptable. The consequences of plagiarism are serious and can range from failing a course to permanent expulsion from the university.

Why Refraining from Plagiarism is Better

No matter the circumstances, it is always better to submit your own work, even if you risk failing. Here are the reasons:

Learn from your mistakes: If you fail, you will have learned valuable lessons that will help you in future assignments. Better performance next time: By avoiding plagiarism, you ensure better outcomes in future academic endeavors. No severe consequences: Plagiarism can lead to severe penalties such as expulsion, which can have long-lasting negative effects on your academic and professional life.

The consequences of plagiarism are severe and can significantly impact your academic and professional future. It is crucial to always maintain academic integrity and avoid engaging in any forms of academic dishonesty.