Why this matters

Cheating in college might seem like a shortcut when stress is high and grades are slipping—but it’s a decision that can carry long-term consequences. As a college professor, I’ve seen students go from desperate to dishonest. I’ve also had to report those students to the Honor Board, knowing it could affect their transcripts, scholarships, even grad school dreams.

The scariest part? Most students don’t understand how serious it is until it’s too late.

But it doesn’t have to get that far. With some honest conversations and practical strategies, students can avoid that spiral. And parents—you have a powerful role to play here too.

Let’s talk about the pressure

Students today are under an enormous amount of pressure: to get top grades, land internships, keep scholarships, and stay competitive. And when they feel behind or overwhelmed, it’s tempting to look for the “easy” way out—especially when it feels like “everyone’s doing it.”

And let’s be real: sometimes they are. I’ve seen shared test banks, “AI-assisted” papers, and friends swapping homework. But none of those things make it okay—and they don’t make it safe.

Here’s what cheating can cost:

• A permanent mark on their academic record

• A failed course (or semester)

• Losing a scholarship or getting kicked out of a program

• Trouble transferring or getting into grad school

• Losing the trust of professors and peers

A student story you won’t forget

A few semesters ago, one of my students—let’s call him Brian—was caught using ChatGPT to write a research paper. He thought he’d outsmart the system, but the paper had sources listed that were not legitimate.  Yes, ChatGPT will make up sources!  Many students don't know this.  I had no choice but to report him.

What broke my heart was that Brian wasn’t lazy. He was overwhelmed, behind on deadlines, and had no clue how to catch up. He told me later he wished someone had taught him how to manage his time and study smarter instead of just saying “work harder.”

That’s when I knew: students don’t need harsher rules. They need better systems—and better support.

What students can do instead

Here are a few ways students can stay on track and out of trouble:

✅ Know your resources.

Most schools have academic support centers, tutoring, writing labs, and even mental health services. Don’t wait until it’s a crisis—ask for help early.

✅ Make a plan before you’re panicked.

Students who plan their weeks—study time, breaks, and deadlines—don’t get as desperate. I teach my students a simple system that keeps them moving forward week by week instead of getting buried in a panic spiral.

✅ Avoid risky shortcuts.

Group chats where people “share answers,” AI tools that write your paper, “helpful” websites that post textbook questions with answers... all of these can get you in trouble. If it feels shady, it probably is.

✅ Build a “study crew.”

Students who study together regularly—quizzing each other, reviewing concepts, keeping each other accountable—learn faster and stay on track.

✅ Talk to your professors.

If you're struggling, reach out. Most of us are far more willing to help when a student is honest than when we find out they cheated.

Tips for parents: How to start the conversation

Having this conversation can feel uncomfortable—but it’s also a powerful way to show your student you’re in their corner.

👂 Ask first, don’t lecture.

Start with: “Have you ever felt like everyone around you is cheating or cutting corners? How do you handle that?” Let them talk before jumping in.

📣 Emphasize values over outcomes.

Remind them that integrity matters more than a perfect GPA. Getting a B honestly is better than cheating for an A.

📘 Offer tools, not just advice.

If your student feels overwhelmed or like they’re falling behind, offer them real help—not just reminders to “do better.” That’s where I come in. My College Success System gives students the structure and strategies they need to study smarter, stay on track, and still have time for fun.

Final thoughts

College is hard—but cheating makes it harder in the long run. The real win? Learning how to manage your time, organize your studies, and ask for help before things fall apart.

If your student is stressed, overwhelmed, or just unsure how to get back on track, I can help. My program is built for exactly these moments—because the goal isn’t perfection. It’s progress, confidence, and a college experience that feels balanced.

Want support that actually works?
Let’s help your student succeed—without shortcuts. [Check out my signature course here.]