Monday 25-10-2021 - 08:30

 

Your Students’ Union is here for you, to help you to achieve success in your studies, and to make sure that your time at University goes as smoothly as possible.

That’s why we’d like to draw your attention to the dangers of being involved with buying and selling essays.

We’ve heard from students who suddenly pick up strange followers on Twitter or Instagram, or even direct messages.  

These new false friends might tell you that they understand how hard it is to be a student, and offer ‘help’ with an assignment.

If you receive one of these messages, alarm bells should be going off.  Don’t fall for it!

We’ve heard about students who were told that the University would never know.  But the University did find out.

When the University found out, it was recorded as ‘Academic Misconduct’.  

For a second offence of Academic Misconduct, some students have even been expelled from the University.  

We’ve heard about students who were told that Turnitin won’t pick up this essay, because it’s been written brand new.  

But Turnitin CAN pick up a dodgy list of references – these ‘brand new’ essays aren’t as brand new as they’re saying.  

A tutor CAN recognise when the style of writing in your assignment doesn’t match your earlier work.  

We’ve even heard about students who’ve bought an essay, couldn’t afford to pay up, and have then been harassed, and even blackmailed.  

People who try to sell you essays do not have your best interests at heart.  Do not buy them, and do not engage with them.    

 

But if you are struggling, don’t worry. There is better help at hand.

UWTSD has fantastic student support available if you’re finding it tough to keep on top of your assignments.  

You can contact Student Services – for advice on Extenuating Circumstances or Interruption of Study.  

You can join online Study Skills Support sessions, on topics including essay writing and referencing.

And you can always ask your lecturers for advice.  They’ve been in the same boat as you – they know how hard it can be to write those first few University essays. 

The Students’ Union’s door is always open to you if you have any questions about Academic Misconduct – if you’re not sure how to avoid it, if you’ve been accused of it, or if you just have questions about it.

Our advice is free, confidential and independent of the University.  

Best of luck with your assignments – we’re always here for you.