Students treated as adults
With few exceptions, Georgia Tech students are at least 18 years of age. As such they are considered adults by both law and practice. We work to create a living environment where students can grow and develop. Part of this maturation process involves "testing limits and boundaries." Our judicial process certainly takes this into account. However, an adult student is expected to be responsible for his or her actions.
Our contract is with the student
The Housing contract is signed by the resident. All policies and procedures outlined within it and our Community and Services Guide apply to the student.
Governed by FERPA
Because Georgia Tech is a state and federally funded institution, we must follow the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) which prohibits the Department of Housing from releasing any but the most basic "directory" information about a student with out the student's written permission. This applies to family members. Housing administrative staff will use their best judgment about discussing roommates, finances, complaints or other problems without the student's permission. In the case of dire emergency, we may choose to speak to family members. We do know this is frustrating (it is for us, too) but we have very little "wiggle room" on this law.
