Honor Code Speech

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.

The administration has prepared a speech foe me today on the honor code.  But, in preparation for this speech, I remembered the day when I sat in your seat…at my own orientation.  I remembered how boring the different speakers could be.  

So, I’m going to give you my own speech on the honor code: The ‘Get used to it’ speech.  Get used to the honor code, it is the standard by which you will be measured for the rest of your life.

(POINT 1)  
Sure, you signed the honor code when you applied to the University.  But, that doesn’t really matter.  As an adult, effectively you always operate under the honor code—in jobs, among friends, or in class.  

(POINT 2)
And, operating under the honor code in your life is good.  Think about it: Do you hang around shifty, untrustworthy people?  Do you want to?  

(POINT 5)
You know, in the real world, there are consequences for unacceptable behavior.  You might be fired from your job if you lie.  Here, it’s just as serious: You get an F if you’re found guilty.  There is no leniency, you get an F.  

(POINT 6)
And, that’s an F that will stick with you.  If you decide to go to graduate school, you’re going to have to explain that F.  You’re going to have to convince a board of admissions that you’re a good candidate.  But, the decision is easy for that admissions person: Why should I tolerate someone guilty of the honor code when so many honest students wish to get into graduate school.  

Last year, 2000 people applied for the law school here.  Only 215 were accepted.  Graduate schools may pick and choose as they please.  Do you think they’ll choose you with your F?