Zero Tolerance Policy

o whom it may concern, I am writing to Arizona University’s Policy Committee in regards to the ongoing conversations dealing with plagiarism and the potential adoption of the "zero-tolerance” policy. While the University of Arizona is one out of the many colleges and universities that exist during this era of growing technology, as a future incoming student to the University of Arizona, I hope that my words and opinion will be considered for adopting an alternative policy rather than the “zero-tolerance” policy. A "zero-tolerance" policy is binding and leaves zero room for improvement or mistakes. It is understandable that the University of Arizona would want to promote an honest and integral image of their students, however, humans will be humans, nonperfect and possessing flaws. Some college students would settle on a three strike policy for plagiarism, however, I

I would like to propose a second chance policy instead, a middle ground for both the university and the student. The first offense is the only warning that a student will receive. They will be given an opportunity to improve their academics and prove their integrity. The second offense would be the last offense leading to an immediate expulsion. This policy would weed out those who intentionally plagiarised reducing the number of expelled students who plagiarized unintentionally. In reviewing article #2, Forget About Policy Plagiarism by Rebbeca Moore Howard, she takes a look at the surge in plagiarism from increased internet access and poses questions and scenarios to the readers on how the education system has been promoting plagiarism, rather than actively trying to put a halt to the act. When speaking of the plagiarism “plague” attacking