Protecting International Students Accused of Academic Misconduct at Massachusetts Colleges and Universities

International students who have come to the United States to attend college or university in Massachusetts have a lot at stake. They’ve left behind their families and friends, and they’ve invested time and money in pursuing educational opportunities that could change their lives forever. Unfortunately, international students are more vulnerable when charged with academic or code of conduct violations, compared to American students.

Cheating, plagiarism, and failure to meet academic standards are common areas of concern among international students. Cultural differences play a crucial role here. What may seem acceptable in one culture may be frowned upon in another. For instance, some forms of collaboration that are permissible in certain countries can constitute cheating in the US. International students who violate these rules can find themselves unwittingly breaching their school’s code of conduct.

Another reason why international students are disproportionately accused compared to American students is latent xenophobia. Professors and school administrators may view foreign-born students with greater scrutiny even if it happens subconsciously.
 
Language barriers also contribute significantly to misunderstandings between international students and American faculty members. Although many international students can speak English fluently, nuances in language can be lost in translation leading to miscommunication.

Consequences for International Students Accused of Academic Misconduct

Being found responsible for any misconduct can have severe consequences on an international student’s life – this goes beyond just jeopardizing academic or professional careers. It may lead to serious immigration issues if the student is suspended, dismissed or expelled from school as their student visa can be revoked, resulting in deportation from the United States. Therefore, it is critical that you understand your situation as an international student facing disciplinary charges –the dynamics behind misconduct charges-what happens during the disciplinary process-your rights- whats at stake -before speaking with your Massachusetts College.

Todd Spodek Can Help Protect Your Academic Future

To ensure that your future remains secure, even in the face of serious misconduct accusations, you need an experienced attorney-advisor who can guide you through the disciplinary process while defending your interests. Contact Attorney Todd Spodek and the Spodek Law Group today to discuss your situation and have a specialist defend you during investigations, hearings, and appeals. 

The Spodek Law Group helps international students facing disciplinary actions at Massachusetts colleges and universities including but not limited to those listed below:
American International College
Amherst College
Anna Maria College
Assumption College
Babson College
Bard College at Simon’s Rock
Bay Path College
Bay State College
Becker College
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology 
Bentley University
Berklee College of Music  
Berkshire Community College 
Boston Architectural College 
Boston Baptist College  Boston
College Boston
University Brandeis University Bridgewater
State University Bristol Community
College Bunker Hill Community
College Cambridge
College Cape Cod Community
College Clark University
College of Our Lady of the Elms  
College of the Holy Cross Curry
College Dean
College Eastern Nazarene
College Emerson
College Emmanuel
College Endicott
College Fisher
Fitchburg State University Framingham State
University Franklin W. Olin
 Gordon
Greenfield Community
Hampshire
Harvard
Hellenic
Holyoke
ITT Technical Institute Norwood  

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list.
Attorney Todd Spodek is licensed to practice in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. He also serves as an advisor for international students across the United States irrespective of their location. They work with clients on a pro hac vice basis on state or federal court cases depending on client needs.

Protect Your Future with Todd Spodek:

International students attending schools in Massachusetts have sacrificed much to better themselves by gaining an education in the United States. Facing accusations of academic misconduct or code of conduct violations can destroy their future dreams, careers and everything they’ve achieved at school so far. Do not face these allegations alone; protect your academic career with experienced counsel from Todd Spodek and the Spodek Law Group. Contact them today at 212-300-5196.