As the world has changed, so have the rules of etiquette associated with it. The emergence of cell phones and barely-there clothing into mainstream culture may leave some wondering where the line between acceptable and rude is.
For students in just such a predicament, The Spectrum has outlined a few simple standards of modern etiquette in the college world.
Dealing with roommates and neighbors
According to Honore McDonough Ervin and Lesley Carlin, known by their penname as "the Etiquette grrls," in their book, Things You Need to Be Told, dealing with roommates and neighbors in small spaces can be made easier with some straightforward rules.
When living in an apartment complex or dorm room, it is important to be considerate of others, keeping music at a reasonable level and avoiding spontaneous rounds of indoor sports that could cause your neighbors to become alarmed, not to mention falling plaster. The Etiquette grrls suggest those who regularly play a musical instrument or vocal performance should do so only in designated practice rooms on campus.
As for common areas, they should be kept clean and quiet. Doors that are visible to all who pass by should not have d?(c)cor that could be offensive to others. Additionally, avoid taking over the common area or TV, which will only spark a fight.
The Etiquette grrls state that a good roommate will pay their share of the bills on time, and take proper phone messages when their roommate is out. They recommend not getting into the habit of borrowing items, should they become lost or ruined.
When it comes to food, roommates should agree to either take turns purchasing staple items - if it becomes unequal, food items should be purchased separately. It is better to ask before eating someone else's stash, especially when taking the last cookie in the package.
As a general rule, it is best to be respectful of a roommate's own space, which means staying away from all mail, laundry and personal items. When having guests over they should show your roommate the same respect.
When you're out and about
In the book 21st-Century Etiquette, author Charlotte Ford states a handshake is a vital when meeting someone for the first time. A proper handshake is firm, but not hurtful, with the entire palm touching the receiver's.
Ford said it is also important to introduce the people you're with. This is especially important when you're with a friend and run into another acquaintance so that neither person feels awkward.
When traveling downtown on the subway, give up your seat for adults and the elderly - one day you will be in their shoes.
Ford also says to cover your mouth when you yawn at your 8 a.m. class. When you are sick and must venture out in public, cover your mouth when you sneeze your cough. So as not to spread germs, aim for the elbow of your sleeve.
When at a bar, a 15 percent gratuity is appropriate for the bartender, 10 to 20 percent for the wait staff at a restaurant.
According to the Etiquette grrls, when you knock over someone else's drink, it is only appropriate to buy them a new one. Similarly, if you are out with a friend who just lost their job or received a failing grade, it is only nice to pick up the check for them.
When dining out with friends, it is best to divide the check equally in accordance with what they ordered. Keep things simple by rounding up or asking for a separate check, this way the person who ordered only an appetizer won't have to pay for your steak.
If in the event of bad service when dining out, do not argue with the wait staff, simply leave and ask to speak with the management on the way out.
When at a bar the Etiquette grrls said it is imperative that you do not pass out or approach people and inquire what their ethnic background is. When at a movie, concert or attending class, avoid getting up repeatedly or talking to the person next to you.
"When people sit in lecture and have conversations during class and I can't hear the professor, that's annoying," said senior biology major Patrick Hattenback. "Just because the professor can't hear you doesn't mean no one else can."
According to senior mechanical engineering major Kathy Kane, it is important to be aware of others when in public.
"One of the rudest things people do on campus is stand in the middle of the halls in a big group and act like no one exists,"
Communication
In her book Etiquette for Dummies, etiquette expert Sue Fox cites proper email manners.
When writing an email to a professor it is important to address him or her by his or her title, followed by his or her last name and never by first name - unless they specifically say it is okay. When signing an email to a faculty member, always use your full name so they can distinguish one Joe from another. It may also be helpful to let the professor know which of their classes you are in.
Fox also advices against using all capital letters, as the reader may feel as if you are shouting at them. Write only what you would say in person, and keep in mind that what you write can be saved and forwarded to anyone. Also be respectful of a professor's time and keep messages as brief as possible.
Don't succumb to forwarding chain messages.
With cell phones, the Etiquette grrls recommend they be turned off when dining out, at the doctor's office or while in class. Be cautious of having private conversations in public where they can be overheard.
Additionally, keep the voicemail message on your cell phone short and sweet. If ever you dial the wrong number, don't just hang up, apologize.
"Cell phone usage is annoying, disruptive and certainly disrespectful," said Lana Burl, an instructor in the department of exercise and nutrition sciences. "If a call is so critical that it can't be missed, my advice is to sit near a door, keep the phone on silent ring and take the call outside the classroom."
When it comes time to ask a professor for a recommendation, give them enough advance notice. If it needs to be mailed, provide them with a stamped, addressed envelope and send a thank you note afterwards.
The Etiquette grrls advise against brown-nosing during class and taking up everyone's class time. Keep any questions concise or wait until office hours.
