For all Iona students who aren’t graduating in May, the dreaded housing selection season is approaching. As a result, students are trying to coordinate housing groupings, examine all of their options and make sure they can afford the school year ahead.

Many upperclassmen will be looking at options to move off-campus into conveniently located houses or apartments in the area surrounding Iona. As they do, they should keep a simple concept in mind: respect.

Although many Iona students prove to be good neighbors and good tenants, some take advantage of their newfound freedom as they move out of Iona’s residence halls.

It’s true that some students may not be aware that their actions negatively affect their New Rochelle neighbors, but let’s be realistic. You’re pretty smart, Gaels. The fact that late night shouting matches and post-party belligerence disturb those around you should come as no surprise.

The Office of Off-Campus Housing is sponsoring a campaign called “Good Neighbor U,” that aims to make students more aware of their behavior as residents of New Rochelle and representatives of Iona College.

This campaign reflects general good neighbor practices, but also addresses issues that are specific to Iona students and the experiences of their neighbors.

The campaign offers great advice, though some students might be embarrassed at the advice that is given.

Should we really need reminders that profanity and excessive noise should be kept to a minimum, or that we shouldn’t treat our neighbors’ yards like they’re toilets?

No, we shouldn’t. We’re smart adults who can do things like ace classes, excel in internships and run programming and mission trips.

The sad reality, though, is that we do need these reminders. If we didn’t this campaign would not have been created.

Wake up and look around, Gaels. You’re part of a community that extends beyond the confines of Iona’s campus and beyond the span of your four years as an undergraduate. Your actions make an impact on those surrounding Iona and affect the relationship between your school and the larger community.

It’s true— college is the time for you to work hard and play hard. You want to hang out with your friends and have a good time, and you should.

But it’s important you remember that just because you’re in college doesn’t mean your neighbors are. They have jobs, families and lives that don’t run by 52-minute classes and your weekend plans.

The message is simple: be a good neighbor. Show respect to the others in your community, and recognize when you’re out of line. Have your fun without disturbing those around you, and encourage your friends to do the same.

Still not sure what constitutes acceptable behavior when you’re walking home from your friends’ house at 2 a.m.? Well, would you want a stranger doing whatever you’re about to do outside your house at home? It’s really not that complicated.

Make an effort to change your behavior. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to be a good neighbor if you put your mind to it.