Whether your student and their roommate decided their residence hall room was missing a pet squirrel, or a Residence Life staff member stopped by during a gathering and noticed a few policy missteps, college is filled with new experiences—and plenty of opportunities to learn along the way.
As students transition to life at the University of New England, they gain greater independence and responsibility. With that freedom comes the expectation that students understand and uphold the standards that help make UNE a safe, respectful, and welcoming place for everyone.
Before the panic sets in after a phone call home, or the familiar response of, “How was I supposed to know that wasn’t allowed?” we encourage students and families to become familiar with the resources and expectations outlined in the UNE Student Handbook and, for students living on campus, the Housing Handbook.
- Student Handbook: https://www.une.edu/sites/default/files/2025-08/StudentHandbooks_2025_StudentHandbook.pdf
- Housing Handbook: https://www.une.edu/sites/default/files/2025-08/SA_StudentHandbooks_2025_Housing.pdf
These handbooks explain community standards, student rights and responsibilities, academic and behavioral expectations, housing policies, and the process followed when a student violates University policy. They are useful resources for helping students make informed choices and understand how their actions may affect themselves and others.
At UNE, being a good community member means more than simply following rules. It means treating others with respect, making responsible choices, being mindful of how one’s behavior impacts roommates, classmates, neighbors, and the broader campus community, and contributing positively to the living and learning environment.
When students make mistakes—and most students will at some point—the goal is often education and growth. The student conduct process is designed not only to address policy violations but also to help students reflect on their decisions, understand their impact on others, and develop the skills needed to be successful members of the UNE community and beyond.
Parents and family members can play an important role by encouraging students to:
- Review the Student and Housing Handbooks regularly.
- Ask questions when they are unsure about a policy or expectation.
- Consider how their choices may affect others and the UNE community.
- Seek support from Housing and Residential/Commuter Life, Student Affairs, or other campus resources when needed.
While we certainly hope your student never has to make that “I might be in trouble” phone call, understanding UNE’s expectations and community standards can help you and them navigate challenges and get the most out of their college experience. After all, some lessons are learned best through experience—but it’s always helpful to know the rules before testing them!
