Student Life

Credit Language

EN 3: Student Life – version 2.2

Frequently Asked Questions

How has this credit changed from STARS 2.1 to 2.2?

Minor edits to clarify intent were made. A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the 2.2 Summary of changes.

What qualifies as a student-run enterprise?

Student-run enterprises are businesses managed by students that include sustainability as part of their mission statements or stated purposes. Common examples include student-managed cafes, groceries, revenue-generating farms, consulting firms, thrift/reuse stores, apiaries, co-ops, bicycle repair shops, and similar enterprises. Student-managed sustainable investment funds do not qualify and are recognized separately under this credit.  

What counts as a sustainability-related theme?

Responses for sustainability-related themes must affirm that sustainability-related themes were chosen for themed semesters, years, or first-year experiences (e.g., choosing a sustainability-related book for common reading). Basic outreach campaigns are not sufficient.

Can resources for students to find socially/environmentally responsible employers count as a graduation pledge?

Responses for Graduation Pledge must reference a graduation pledge through which students pledge to consider social and environmental responsibility in future job and other decisions. Resources for students to find socially/environmentally responsible employers are not sufficient.

Example Responses

  • Saint Michael’s College – Comprehensive responses in all areas with a Yes response. Good reporting example for smaller institutions.
  • Temple University – Comprehensive responses in all areas with a Yes response. Nice example of a student-run enterprise (Rad Dish Co-Op Cafe).
  • University of California, Santa Barbara – Comprehensive responses throughout. Great detail in particular under student organizations, student gardens and student investment.

Common Issues Identified During Review

  • Student-Run Enterprises – Response must affirm that the effort is student-run, and that the business or enterprise includes sustainability as part of its mission or stated purpose.
  • Sustainable Investment and Finance – Response must reference an investment funds through which students can develop socially, environmentally and fiscally responsible investment and financial skills. Student membership in an institution-wide Committee for Socially Responsible Investment does not meet the criteria here (but is recognized under PA 8).
  • Wilderness and Outdoors Programs – Response should affirm that the wilderness/outdoor program follows Leave No Trace Principles.
  • Sustainability-Focused Themes – Response must affirm that sustainability-related themes were chosen for themed semesters, years, or first-year experiences (e.g. choosing a sustainability-related book for common reading). Basic outreach campaigns are not sufficient.
  • Graduation Pledge – Response must reference a graduation pledge through which students pledge to consider social and environmental responsibility in future job and other decisions. Resources for students to find socially/environmentally responsible employers are not sufficient.

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