Liar, liar

Everyone has had this happen to them: You're talking to someone and just cannot believe the things they're saying. In your head you're thinking, "Wow, this guy is such a liar!"

I'm sure you've also been the person lying. I know that I've told lies, mostly to get out of trouble or to make myself not look so terrible about not having an assignment. I know that makes me a horrible person, but at least I'm honest about lying.

Lying is one of those habits we're supposed to shoot down as children. And for the most part, it's sort of effective. I don't really recall telling very many lies until I reached puberty and got into more trouble. Usually they're minor lies. I don't know too many people who lie about huge things, because it's harder to keep up with them, right? And the bigger the lie, the bigger the consequences.

Minor lies can lead to major consequences in the academic arena. A study by the Center for Academic Integrity found that almost 80 percent of college students admitted to cheating at least once.

While you probably understand why cheating is a big deal, and chances are you probably felt sorry about it (at least I hope you did), many people don't realize the consequences.

Say a teacher catches you cheating. Yeah, you're in trouble. But what happens if it blows up to something more? Better yet, what caused you to even think about it in the first place?

Usually it's a long week and you didn't get around to studying. Or you have never set foot in the classroom or cracked the textbook. But does that make it OK?

If you have the means to justify it, then maybe it's appropriate for you.

However, consider gaining the reputation as a cheater. Not the relationship cheater that everyone hates, but the one who lies about simple things. In a career, that one tiny lie could cost you a promotion.

I know I'm telling you things you already know, but next time you're about to ignore studying for whatever reason, think about it. College is great, and sure you could possibly get away with cheating or plagiarizing sometimes, but one day someone is going to catch you.

And if it becomes a habit, like lying usually does, one day you'll tell the wrong lie to a boss. I know you may not care what your random professor thinks, but when that person signs your paycheck, I'm sure you will.

Just like your mom always said, lying will catch up with you.

This writer can be contacted at opinion@theeastcarolinian.com.