Choosing a safe and secure college is one of the most important decisions you will make in your college search. After all, you will study in a new place for several years, and it is natural to want to feel safe while acquiring knowledge.
Unfortunately, not all colleges are created equal when it comes to safety and security. With crime rates varying across the country, it is necessary to take steps to ensure that your college experience will be as secure as possible.
With so many educational institutions in the US, it can take time to determine which one will provide you with the best environment for learning and personal growth. To help you make the process easier, here are the tips to take into consideration.
1) Research the crime statistics of the campus and surrounding area
Look for information on the number of reported incidents of theft, assault, sexual and non-sexual offenses, disciplinary actions, and other crimes. This information can usually be found on the school’s website or Nuwber (depending on your chosen college).
Additionally, you can research the surrounding area and get a better idea of its safety. There are many internet resources that can give you details about the crime rates in the area, registered sex offenders, and other essential details that can help you make an informed decision.
2) Check the safety measures and emergency protocols in place on campus
It’s crucial to know what measures your college has in place for emergencies and how they plan to communicate with students in the event of an incident. Look for schools with a comprehensive emergency plan that includes drills and regular updates.
Ensure the university has multiple methods of communication, such as text messages and social media, to notify students promptly. Knowing the emergency procedures and who to contact can provide peace of mind and may even save lives.
3) Look for a campus with a visible security presence
When visiting potential colleges, pay attention to the security measures in place. Look for a campus with a visible safety presence, such as security officers patrolling the grounds, security cameras, and emergency call boxes. All these can deter criminal activity and help students feel safer.
Additionally, make sure to inquire about the security protocols for residence halls and academic buildings, such as key card access or security escorts for late-night study sessions.
4) Research the school’s alcohol and drug policies
Does the school have a strict zero-tolerance policy or is there a more lenient approach? Are there resources available for students struggling with substance abuse?
These are important questions to ask to ensure that you will attend a safe and responsible environment. Remember that alcohol and drug use can lead to many safety concerns, including sexual assault and other violent crimes.
5) Read reviews and ask current students about their experiences with safety on campus
One of the best ways to gauge the safety of a college is to hear from those currently attending. Take some time to read reviews and pay attention to ratings on various websites to get a better idea of what students are saying about safety on campus.
You can also reach out to current students to get firsthand accounts of their experiences. Ask about safety measures in place, any incidents they may have witnessed or heard about, and overall feelings of security. Remember to consider that everyone’s experiences differ, but hearing from those attending can give you valuable insights.
6) Look into the school’s mental health resources and support systems
The ability to receive mental health assistance when necessary is crucial. Almost all students face different challenges during the studying process, whether it’s relationship struggles or problems at home or university. Not everyone can afford expensive therapists, and that is where college steps in. To protect its students, it should provide adequate mental health resources.
Look for schools that offer counseling services and support groups. Additionally, research the availability and accessibility of these services. Are they easily accessible on campus or only available during limited hours? Are there options for online or phone counseling?
7) Inquire about transportation options available on and off campus
Does the school offer a shuttle service for students to get around campus and surrounding areas? Are there reliable public transportation options available for students who live off campus?
Find out if there are well-lit bus stops and security cameras on campus. Take the time to research these options and factor them into your decision-making process. Having safe and reliable transportation can greatly enhance your college experience and give you peace of mind.
8) Consider the safety of off-campus activities and events sponsored by the school
Look into whether the school partners with reputable transportation providers and ensures safe practices during outings.
Additionally, check if the school has clear guidelines and policies in place to keep students safe during events outside of campus. This includes safety protocols for large-scale events and social activities, as well as guidance on how to stay safe when exploring the local community.
9) Trust your gut and choose a school where you will feel safe and comfortable
When choosing a safe and secure college, listen to your intuition. If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable during a campus tour or interview, it’s worth exploring those feelings further.
Pay attention to the campus culture, atmosphere, and the interactions between students and staff. If you feel like you can’t be yourself or that your safety might be compromised in any way, it’s best to look for other options.
Conclusion
Choosing a safe and secure college is crucial for your well-being and success as a student. You can pick a school where you will feel safe and at ease by doing your homework on crime rates, safety precautions, campus culture, and other aspects.
Don’t hesitate to ask current students about their experiences and trust your gut when making a final decision. You will be able to concentrate on your studies and fully appreciate your college experience only if you keep the above suggestions in mind.
