Is Binghamton University a Good School?
As an accelerated nursing student from 2020 to 2022, my experience at Binghamton University was far from ideal. I encountered a deeply inequitable and unethical environment that targeted students of color, raising serious concerns about the university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. This article delves into my experiences and the challenges faced, offering insights into the issues and potential reasons for these occurrences.
Unfavorable Academic and Administrative Environment
The Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Binghamton University has been the scene of numerous incidents of mistreatment and unethical behavior. My initial aim to pursue a nursing degree was met with obstacles that seemed to stem from systemic issues within the institution. The mistreatment extended beyond academic life; financial, psychological, and physical aspects all played a role in creating a hostile environment.
The Financial Aid Dilemma
My journey was curtailed by an issue with the Financial Aid department, which blocked my access to financial aid. The department's dishonesty extended to denying the existence of any cover-up until a female employee finally exposed the truth to me. This incident underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in financial aid administration. Without timely and adequate financial support, students might be barred from completing their studies, leading to prolonged academic and financial stress.
Mismanagement and Fabrication by University Staff
The Office of the Dean of Students allowed a Case Management Coordinator to create fabricated redacted documents against me, further complicating my academic and personal life. This manipulation not only fostered an environment of mistrust but also created hurdles that impeded my progress. The academic affairs office of the Vice Provost and Provost showed little interest in addressing my reported mistreatment, suggesting a systemic failure in maintaining a fair and just academic environment.
Selective and Biased Support Systems
The Counseling Center's selective reporting and documentation practices raised significant concerns about their commitment to students' well-being. Attentional bias in their records suggests a lack of balanced support and can lead to further isolation and distress. Meanwhile, the Risk Management and Administrative Compliance Department witnessed mistreatment but failed to intervene, highlighting the need for robust institutional oversight mechanisms.
Failure of Administrative Officials to Address Complaints
The Office of the Ombudsman, the Office of the President, and other administrative offices consistently failed to address my reports of mistreatment. This pattern of indifference and inaction speaks to a broader systemic issue within Binghamton University, where voices of students of color are often silenced, dismissed, or ignored.
Police and Conduct Departments
The Office of Student Conduct and University Police received my reports of mistreatment, but I continued to face targeted harassment by faculty and students. Similarly, the Services for Students with Disabilities Office and the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Office failed to provide support, instead gaslighting and exacerbating my experiences. The Office of the Vice President for Research also ignored my reports and requests for interven-tion from SUNY Headquarters, leading to a feeling of complete isolation within the institution.
Superior Administration's Response
SUNY Headquarters's failure to address the discrimination, intimidation, and stalking I faced at Binghamton University is particularly alarming. Their inaction further endangers the well-being of students, especially those from marginalized communities, and undermines the institution's purported commitment to inclusivity.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Considering all these factors, I would not recommend this discriminatory institution to any student. The combination of unethical behavior, systemic failures, and a lack of proper avenues for reporting and resolution creates a hostile and unwelcoming environment. Future students should be aware of these potential risks and consider alternative institutions that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Keywords: Binghamton University, Nursing School, Discrimination