This letter is in response to the articles “NSU Smoking Reform won’t make quitters — consequences might” and “NSU should quit smoking,” published on Aug. 30.
Nicotine addiction is very a difficult habit to break. Nevertheless, quitting smoking IS possible. Thus, I believe in enforcing the current restricted-smoking policy on campus. All students, faculty, staff, and visitors need to be clearly educated about these rules. Anyone caught breaking the rules should receive an appropriate punishment whether in the form of a warning for the first offense or a fine for repeated offenses. Also, smoking violations should be available to the public to see the list of smokers violating these rules.
Smokers should be given the chance to quit smoking or follow the rules. We as a community should support our fellow smoking Sharks and help them quit by giving them words of encouragement and a lending ear. Smokers should also be aware of any programs and treatments that encourage quitting tobacco use. There are free psychological sessions available to all NSU students next to Pizza Heaven (on University Drive) which will aid smokers in psychological changes, stress, and coping behavior.
However, if smokers do not adhere to the policy, then NSU would need a clear, effective and strict non-smoking policy. Fines should then be dramatically increased and follow up with severe consequences. All prospective students should then be aware of the non-smoking policy and sign a document stating he or she will not use tobacco on campus.
During the college application process, student orientations, and high school tours, NSU staff should reinforce this strict policy. This way, there would be no surprises to smokers.
I believe in fairness for both parties: smokers have the right to smoke without being harassed and non-smokers have the right to breathe clean air. Let’s give smokers a chance to change their behavior.
However, if smokers continue to violate the rules, then a strict non-smoking policy should be introduced.
Stephanie Bardales
