For students entering college for the first time, one of the big perks of leaving home has always been the notion of greater independence.
Here at UB, that notion of independence is backed up by a parental notification policy that most often keeps student consequences concerning grades and legal matters separated from parental intervention.
"We're not in the business of calling mom and dad about every little thing," said Dennis Black, vice president for Student Affairs. "Only when the person's future as a student is threatened or there is a medical emergency that would put the student at risk."
Article Six of the Office of Judicial Affairs' university standards states that parents or guardians are only notified of a student's drug and alcohol violations when the student is under 21, an age pool that pertains to a large percentage of the student body.
The university also only involves the parent under certain circumstances such as "clear and present danger," arrest or custody of the student, medical intervention involving alcohol or drugs, and possible expulsion from the school, a program, or a facility.
UB is not allowed to notify parents about other actions such as vandalism, abortion or improper conduct, except for the case of a severe threat or emergency, Black said.
Black said parental notification is not another form of punishment, but more of a way to assist the student in a time of need.
"The call is not a disciplinary sanction, it's more a call for help," he said. "It's to get the attention of those people who may be of influence to help you."
The student even has the option of calling a parent first, according to Black.
"The student could have the conversation with their parent," he said. "We are simply looking for a way to get people involved."
Jessica Miller, a freshman economics major, said that to many students the idea of college is about partying and freedom from parental supervision.
UB, like many large universities, has sometimes been tagged as a "party school" due to a reputation for underage drinking and its role in "Sorority Life" and "Fraternity Life" on MTV.
"Most college students arrive at school with a preconceived notion that college is all about being away from your parents -- partying, staying out, going wherever and whenever," Miller said. "Once you're here, and you see that it does happen, it only strengthens the belief."
Miller agreed with UB's policy, saying parents should not get involved except for emergencies.
"I believe that if colleges want to put out the idea that we're adults, and we're responsible for our own actions, parents shouldn't be notified," she said. "In cases of serious violations, and problems that put their person at risk, like serious depression or attempted suicides, then a parent should definitely be notified."
One student, who chose to speak anonymously, said the under-21 policy was a superficial number.
"Chances are, if you are student here, you are 18," he said. "And if so, you are legally an adult, and parents don't have to be notified under the law if you have committed a crime."
"Maybe I understand the logic there for alcohol, because you have to be 21 to drink legally," he added. "However, narcotics are illegal no matter what age. So the policy there is just an arbitrary number."
Miller also said that tightening the laws on parental enforcement would not help the amount of underage drinking that goes on.
"Underage drinkers do it for the thrill that they're not old enough to drink legally," she said. "Cutting back (on drugs and alcohol) probably wouldn't happen just because 'the man' is out to get you. Students may become a bit more cautious when they do it, but they won't stop."
"All your parents are going to do is nag you," said Shaheedah Nieves, a sophomore Spanish major. "We're pretty much independent in college. Unless I'm on the brink of death, I don't want them to be notified."
Student records are confidential and will only be released upon the student's permission, according to UB's policy.
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, student addresses, telephone numbers, major field of study, dates of attendance, and degrees received will only be released upon the student's request.
Parents can be legally informed by the office of the vice president of Student Affairs, the Ombudsman, the office of Residence Halls and Apartments, or the director of University Health Services.
