Code of Conduct

Cohort1 brings together exceptional students from diverse backgrounds to challenge, inspire, and support one another. This Code of Conduct establishes the standards of behavior that make our community a place where every member can thrive intellectually and personally. By participating in Cohort1, you agree to uphold these standards.

Our Commitment

Cohort1 is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all participants regardless of age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, socioeconomic background, or level of experience.

We believe that intellectual growth flourishes in an atmosphere of mutual respect, and we expect all members to contribute to maintaining this environment.

Expected Behavior

Respect and Kindness

• Treat all members with dignity and respect. Remember that behind every screen is a real person with feelings, perspectives, and experiences that may differ from your own.
• Use welcoming and inclusive language. Avoid slang, idioms, or references that may exclude or confuse members from different backgrounds.
• Give others the benefit of the doubt. Assume good intentions, especially in written communication where tone can be easily misinterpreted.
• Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of others. Build each other up rather than tearing each other down.

Intellectual Engagement

• Engage with ideas, not personalities. Critique arguments on their merits, not the person presenting them.
• Listen actively and thoughtfully. Seek to understand perspectives before responding, especially those that differ from your own.
• Be open to changing your mind. Intellectual courage includes the willingness to revise your views in light of new evidence or compelling arguments.
• Support productive disagreement. Rigorous debate is encouraged; personal attacks are not.
• Share knowledge generously. Help others learn and grow without condescension.

Inclusion and Participation

• Make space for quieter voices. If you tend to speak frequently, be mindful of creating opportunities for others to contribute.
• Invite others into conversations. Actively include members who may be newer or less confident in discussions.
• Respect different communication styles. Some members may be more reserved; this does not diminish the value of their contributions.
• Be patient with those who are learning. Everyone starts somewhere, and creating a supportive learning environment benefits all.

Confidentiality and Privacy

• Respect the privacy of fellow members. Do not share personal information, stories, or details about other members outside of Cohort1 without their explicit permission.
• Keep mastermind discussions confidential. What is shared in sessions stays in sessions unless otherwise agreed upon.
• Ask before sharing. If you want to reference something a member said or share their work, get their consent first.

Unacceptable Behavior

Harassment

• Sexual harassment of any kind, including unwelcome sexual attention, advances, or comments
• Offensive comments related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, or age
• Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following (online or in-person)
• Unwelcome photography, recording, or screenshotting without consent
• Inappropriate physical contact or simulated physical contact without consent
• Threats of violence or violent language directed against another person

Bullying and Discrimination

• Mocking, ridiculing, or belittling other members
• Excluding members based on personal characteristics or background
• Spreading rumors or engaging in gossip about other members
• Using derogatory language or slurs
• Deliberately misgendering or using inappropriate names/pronouns
• Any behavior intended to make another member feel unwelcome or unsafe

Dishonesty and Harmful Behavior

• Plagiarism or taking credit for others' work or ideas
• Sharing false or misleading information
• Impersonating other members or Cohort1 staff
• Sharing inappropriate content including but not limited to violent, sexually explicit, or illegal material
• Doxxing or revealing personal information about others
• Attempting to circumvent safety measures or moderation

Disruptive Conduct

• Repeatedly interrupting or talking over others
• Dominating discussions without allowing others to participate
• Persistently going off-topic or derailing conversations
• Spamming or sending excessive unsolicited messages
• Recruiting for external organizations without permission

Reporting Violations

If you experience or witness any behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it immediately. We take all reports seriously and will handle them with discretion.

What to Include in a Report

• Your contact information (unless reporting anonymously)
• Names or descriptions of the individuals involved
• Description of what happened, including dates and times
• Any screenshots, recordings, or other evidence (if available)
• Names of any witnesses
• Any other context you think is relevant

No Retaliation: Cohort1 strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports a violation in good faith. Retaliatory behavior will be treated as a serious violation of this Code of Conduct.

Consequences

Cohort1 reserves the right to take any action we deem appropriate in response to violations of this Code of Conduct. Actions may include but are not limited to:

• Verbal or written warning with clear expectations for changed behavior
• Temporary suspension from some or all Cohort1 activities
• Permanent removal from the Cohort1 community
• Notification of parents or guardians as appropriate
• Reporting to appropriate authorities if the behavior is illegal

The severity of consequences will depend on the nature of the violation, whether it is a first offense, and other relevant factors. Serious violations, particularly those involving harassment or safety concerns, may result in immediate removal without prior warning.

Your Agreement

By participating in Cohort1, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. You also acknowledge that:

• Cohort1 is a privilege, not a right, and continued participation depends on adherence to community standards
• You are responsible for your own behavior and will be held accountable for violations
• You will contribute to maintaining a positive and inclusive community
• You will report violations when you witness them