Getting good grades means a lot, and cheating can seem like a shortcut to success. Here are some of the common "reasons" students give for cheating.
(1) Time Pressure
"I got desperate when I realized the assignment was due tomorrow!"
"I could not keep up with the work in this class!"
"I had all these assignments coming due at the same time!"
If you feel time pressure, you may have to make more time in your schedule for study. Enjoying extra-curricular activities and time with your classmates is an important part of university life, but you need to balance this with the time you set aside to do your work.
(2) Outside Pressure
"I have to get good grades. My parents will never understand if I get a poor grade."
"There are so many problems at home. I have to work to help my family."
"A family member needs a lot of care and I have to help out."
Family and financial problems can interfere with learning, and such problems may seem to be out of your control. Seek help before you make things worse by cheating. The University has a student counseling service run by the Office of Student Affairs (OSA). With good advice and support, you can learn to handle your problems.