Does Liberty University Kick You Out for Being Pregnant? The Truth About Pregnancy and Higher Education
So, you’re thinking about attending Liberty University, and the question of pregnancy pops up. You’re probably wondering: “Will they kick me out if I get pregnant?” Let’s dive into the world of pregnancy at Liberty University, a place where the “Holy Spirit” and the “student handbook” seem to hold equal sway. Buckle up, because this is a wild ride.
The Short Answer: No, Liberty University will NOT kick you out for being pregnant.
The Slightly Longer Answer: It’s not that simple, my friend.
Liberty University, like most institutions of higher learning, has a non-discrimination policy. They can’t just throw you out based on your baby bump. However, the university is known for its strict adherence to its Christian values, and that can create some interesting situations for pregnant students.
Let’s break it down:
- The Law: Title IX, a federal law enacted in 1972, prohibits discrimination in education on the basis of sex, including pregnancy and parental status. So, Liberty University, like all public and private colleges, has to play by the rules.
- Liberty University’s Policies: Liberty University has policies in place that address pregnancy. They must excuse absences due to pregnancy or childbirth for as long as your doctor says it’s necessary. They also need to allow you to return to the same academic and extracurricular programs.
- The Practical Reality: While Liberty University has to follow the law, their disciplinary and academic penalties are still in effect. Getting pregnant can make navigating those rules a little trickier.
Here’s the catch: Liberty University is known for its strict code of conduct, which includes rules about things like alcohol, drugs, and even PDA (public displays of affection). This is where things get interesting.
What about those “strict rules”?
Liberty University’s strict code of conduct is a bit of a hot topic. While many students come to Liberty to embrace the Christian values and environment, some find the rules a little… restrictive.
Imagine this: You’re a student who’s pregnant and trying to navigate the school’s tight rules. Maybe you’re feeling tired and need to take a nap in the library. Maybe you’re craving a slice of pizza after a long day of classes. Suddenly, you realize that even the most innocent of actions can potentially land you in hot water.
The “Holy Spirit” vs. the “Student Handbook”:
Liberty University’s commitment to Christian values is a big part of their identity. But what happens when those values clash with the realities of pregnancy?
Here are some things to consider:
- “Abstinence Only” Approach: Liberty University promotes a “sexual purity” culture, which can be challenging for pregnant students. While they don’t kick you out, the environment might not be the most supportive for someone who is navigating the emotional and physical changes of pregnancy.
- “Support System”? You might not find the same level of support from fellow students and staff that you might find at a more secular university. Some students at Liberty University might view pregnancy outside of marriage as a “sin,” which could lead to social isolation.
- “The Rules Are The Rules”: While Liberty University is legally obligated to accommodate pregnant students, they can still enforce their strict code of conduct. This could mean facing disciplinary actions for things that might not seem like a big deal to someone outside of the Liberty University bubble.
But wait, there’s more!
In 2018, Liberty University made a significant change to its housing policies. Pregnant students are now permitted to stay in the dorms if they choose. This is a positive step towards accommodating the needs of pregnant students.
The Big Picture:
Ultimately, deciding whether or not to attend Liberty University is a personal choice. It’s important to consider your own values, your personal circumstances, and your willingness to navigate the complexities of the university’s culture.
Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself:
- How important are Christian values to me?
- Am I comfortable with a strict code of conduct?
- How important is a supportive social environment?
- Am I willing to navigate potential challenges related to pregnancy?
Remember: The law protects you from discrimination based on pregnancy, but every institution has its own unique culture. Do your research, talk to current students, and make an informed decision that’s right for you.
And hey, maybe you can even start a “Pregnant Students at Liberty” support group. Just make sure to keep it quiet, because the “Holy Spirit” might not be a huge fan.
This is just a starting point. You can expand on this by digging deeper into specific aspects of Liberty University’s culture, providing real-life examples, and even offering tips for navigating the challenges of pregnancy while attending the university.
Remember: Keep it humorous, sarcastic, and engaging while staying factual and informative. Your goal is to provide valuable insights and help your readers make informed decisions.