Taking dishes and dining costs students more than they realize
Students are constantly reminded of how expensive college is. The mountains of loans, the costly text books, admission to events — all of these things are up to the student to pay. But some expenses are within student control, especially when it comes to issues of morality.
Stealing dishes and dining ware from residential restaurants is costing the school — and, ultimately, the students themselves — and needs to be stopped.
Dining halls are constantly replacing dishes and dining ware because of students’ loose hands. Last year, the school lost $20,000. That is a considerable amount of money that should not have to be spent.
First of all, stealing from the dining halls is inexcusable. One of the first things that children are taught is not to steal. It is a rule that follows human beings for the rest of their lives.
The irony in stealing from the dining halls is students are making things more expensive for themselves. The $20,000 has to be paid back somehow, so it will come straight from CMU’s budget, creating an extra shortfall. One way the university makes up for shortfalls each year?
Tuition increases.
A lot of things on campus seem unfair, especially when it comes to money. But it doesn’t give the student body the right to retaliate through theft and pity larceny. Simply put, it is childish.
Need silverware, cups or dishes? Make it easier on yourself and buy them. Believe it or not, you are putting other students at a disadvantage when the university has to account for an even larger deficit each year.
The university is cracking down on the thefts, as it should be. Consequences, if caught, include small misdemeanors up to higher larceny charges. Fees and fines could be applied to the student. In some extreme cases, thieves could face jail time for up to a year.
This all may seem excessive, but it is apparent these consequences need to be in place. If students are not mature enough to keep their hands off of what is not theirs, they will have to face the punishment.
It’s not just up to the university to stop these thefts. Each student should be on the lookout for the culprits. The actions of few can set the reputation for many, and this situation is no exception.
Turning a blind eye costs more than students may imagine. In this case, it’s $20,000 for simply not saying a word.
