Tradition or Risk: The Dark Side of College Hoaxes That Ended in Tragedy

College hazing is a common tradition in many higher education institutions around the world. They usually involve senior students joking or joking with freshmen, with the aim of bringing students together and creating a sense of community within the university. However, in some cases, prank calls can be violent, dangerous and even deadly. Higher education institutions are always working to reduce these behaviors.

Check out some examples of hazing carried out at universities:

• Hair shaving: Head shaving occurs as a form of submission.
• Forced drinking: New students are required to drink large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time.
• Public humiliation: Carrying out embarrassing or embarrassing activities in public, such as blowing on flour bottle caps while squatting in a line.
• Physical endurance tests: Physical challenges such as running long distances, carrying weights, etc.
• Psychological hazing: Situations of stress and humiliation that affect your mental health.

Unfortunately, there were also cases of university hazing in Brazil that ended in tragedy. Some examples are:

• At the University of São Paulo (USP) 13 years ago, the most emblematic case of violent hazing occurred. Freshman Edison Tsung Chi Hsueh was found dead at the bottom of the institution's pool after a reception party. He and other freshmen, in athletics at USP, were forced to enter the pool, but the boy did not know how to swim.
• In 2006, the Superior Court of Justice ruled for the innocence of four students accused of the death of a boy. The Public Prosecutor's indictment was not considered sufficient as there was insufficient evidence to sustain the case. The students were exonerated and freed from any guilt.
• A student, who was a freshman at the Federal University of Uberlândia, was hospitalized after suffering more than 250 ant bites, due to a cruel hazing carried out by seniors. He was stripped naked and covered in paint, and forced to lie down on an anthill. The Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU) expelled two students and suspended another 13 involved in the case, even after one of them tried to appeal the decision, claiming that the hazing was carried out outside the campus.

If a student is subjected to university hazing, it is important that they follow certain measures to ensure their safety and well-being, namely:

• Talk to someone you trust: it is important for the student to talk to someone they trust, such as a friend or family, about what is connected. They can help you deal with stress and find a way out.
• Inform the authorities: It is important that the student inform the university authorities, such as the course coordinator, or student guidance staff, about what he/she is transmitting. They can help ensure your safety and put an end to hazing activities.
• Get out of dangerous situations: if the student feels threatened or at risk, it is important for him to get out of the situation as quickly as possible. He should seek help immediately if he feels threatened or hurt.
• Do not participate in illegal activities: It is important that the student does not participate in illegal or dangerous activities, such as excessive drinking or strenuous exercise. He should always think of your safety and well-being before making any decision.
• Chat with other students: it is important for the student to talk to other students and discuss their concerns with them. This can help you find support and solidarity in the midst of a difficult situation.

Remembering that these types of prank calls are illegal and condemned by universities and educational institutions. Additionally, these practices are potentially dangerous and can result in serious injury or even death, so it's important to follow these recommendations.