By Ed Klotzbier

Picture this: The Patriots were in the Super Bowl taking on the Chicago Bears, the Celtics won their 16th NBA Championship versus the Houston Rockets and the Red Sox were in the World Series facing the New York Mets.

The year was 1986 and I was a student at Northeastern. What a great time it was to be a college student in the city of Boston. The air was electric and our celebrations were fun and, more importantly, safe.

However, for some reason, nearly two decades later, students have resorted to riotous behavior when their favorite teams win championship games. After Game 7 of the ALCS last week, thousands of college students congregated around Fenway Park and in Kenmore Square and some acted out in violent and disruptive ways. A number of college students, including some from Northeastern, were arrested. And a student at one institution was tragically killed as police tried to push back the crowd.

As the vice president for student affairs, I am continually asked why this kind of behavior occurs. I do not have the answer to why this has become a national phenomenon. But I am urging our Northeastern students to not resort to this type of destructive, mindless behavior. We should be able to enjoy the success of the Red Sox without putting ourselves or others at risk. By now you all understand the consequences of disruptive behavior. There are plenty of opportunities and places around campus to watch the games in a safe and spirited setting.

There is no doubt that this year’s baseball playoffs have been very exciting. Many have waited years for this moment, and it is undoubtedly a great time to be a Red Sox fan. I hope you all enjoy the final games of what has been an amazing year in baseball, and will help make these days be remembered for the talent on the field and not destruction outside of it.

— Ed Klotzbier is the vice president for student affairs.