You have to write a paper synthesizing the ideas in a group of articles and email it to your professor.

You don't like the class; it isn't in your major; you don't understand the articles, and you have more important things to do.

As you're reading the articles, you feel frustrated -- you can't very well synthesize or even paraphrase ideas that you don't understand, but you don't want to ask for help because that would be admitting ignorance.

So you copy what seem to be the most important sentences from the articles, work in some transitions and prepare to send the paper off.

Your Choices:

1. Plagiarize by copying sentences without attribution.

You risk academically:

• an "F" for the assignment
• an "F" for the course
• suspension
• permanent dismissal from the university
  
See the Academic Integrity Policy for the procedures involved.

You risk personally:

• erosion of your self-regard
• compromise of your values (Is this the kind of person you want to be?)

2. Ask for help.

You risk:

• Learning!
• Getting better acquainted with your professor or the teaching assistant, who can help you understand this new material. (Don't be surprised if you also develop a better appreciation of the subject at the same time, as passionate experts sometimes have that effect.)
• A possible penalty on your grade if you need an extension. (The penalty for turning in a paper late is far smaller than the penalty for plagiarism, even if it means a failing grade on the paper.)
• Setting up an appointment with a tutor in the Writing Center or someone in the Academic Success Center for the first time, and realizing how much they can help you with your academic work on this occasion as well as in future classes.

To choose this option:

• E-mail your professor (or call or stop by) and ask for an appointment, explaining that you need help understanding the articles. You may also need to ask for an extension. (You can find a professor's email address, phone number and office location using the Clemson Phonebook.)

How can you prevent this next time?

Remember that some of the most successful Clemson students are not necessarily the brightest or most knowledgeable, but the ones who seek out support when they need it.

Get help from the Academic Success Center.

Request individual assistance from an instructor from the Academic Success Center (it’s free!), who can help you develop a time management schedule that will work for you.

Call 656-6452 to schedule an appointment. The Academic Success Center also offers handouts and time management workshops.

Arrange to meet with a tutor.

The Academic Success Center offers FREE, course-specific tutoring - personalized assistance that complements the instruction you receive in the classroom.

All tutors are selected based upon faculty recommendations, are highly trained and certified through the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA).

Make an appointment with the Writing Center

The Writing Center is in 305 Daniel. Call them at 656-3280 to make an appointment.

Writing Center hours:

Monday-Thursday	10:00 to 4:00
Friday	10:00 to noon