The Crow's Nest

USFSP seeks to help students avoid major conduct code violations

The university wants to help students before they incur a major conduct code infraction.

USF St. Petersburg offers programs students can go to if they need to seek help for a number of personal issues.

One of these programs, Students of Concern Assist Team, or SOCAT, is available to all students. Sometimes college students go through a rough time for a number of personal reasons. These personal issues can bleed into the classroom, keeping them from reaching their full academic potential. SOCAT is not intended to punishing students. Instead, it provides a support group to help students get through their issues.

“We’re looking to help students through education rather than punish them for minor offenses or personal issues. We will take the situation the student is involved with and educate them, so they can learn from their mistakes and hopefully educate others,” said Heather Klisanin, assistant director of housing and residential life and student conduct.

SOCAT has reported a 60 percent increase in referrals for the 2013-14 academic school year, according to Klisanin. SOCAT uses educational tactics and can be used in cases of minor infractions, medical withdrawal, anxiety, missed classes and other situations.

Students that are interested in learning more about SOCAT can visit http://www.usfsp.edu/dos/socat/.

Mayor sighting

Spotted! St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman was seen riding in an Indy car along First Street North on March 13. City Council members were given rides in the Indy car, which will be part of the 11th annual St. Petersburg Grand Prix this month.

The race takes place around the southern portion of downtown St. Pete directly adjacent to USFSP. This year’s race takes place March 27-29.

As Indy cars are already rolling in, be prepared for a lot of traffic and noise the weekend of the race.

For more information about this year’s Firestone Grand Prix, visit http://www.gpstpete.com.