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.