The code is like those on other campuses in its prohibitions on academic dishonesty like cheating or plagiarism. But the Wake Forest code goes further, also regulating social behavior like lying or stealing. Who Should Be Believed? Stephen Schroth, a sophomore, said the case was important because ''it's a good thing when you're reminded that when you're outside the college environment, you can be held responsible for your actions.''

But a senior, Katherine Lambert, questioned whether the Honor Council's verdict was fair. ''I'm not sure you can believe a professor over a student,'' said Ms. Lambert. ''Was he intending to deceive the man?''

Others among the 26 students on the trip were angered by Mr. Bell's action because, they said, it could have put them in danger.

''Realizing that if the tapes had been found, the consequences that could have happened, that obviously would make you concerned,'' said Michael C. Smith, a Wake Forest graduate who traveled with the group.

Mr. Bell had also been accused of endangering other students, but that charge was later dropped without explanation, said Christopher R. Nichols, a student who defended Mr. Bell at an Honor Council hearing on Nov. 28.

Professor Litcher testified at the hearing that the videotape had nothing to do with the case. Rather, it was a dispute over whether Mr. Bell had lied to faculty members, he said. A Bad News Homecoming

Mr. Bell spent the summer working for NBC News in Hong Kong as a production intern and returned to the United States on Aug. 13. He was supposed to graduate on Aug. 15, but he learned of the charge the day after he returned.