On Campus Safety

Going to college can be a very exciting time for many people. But, while it may be exciting and you are having fun, you should always try to stay safe. Most parents teach their kids how to be safe well before they go to college, like look both ways before crossing the street. When you first go off to college, you need to remember what all your parents taught you about staying safe so you can keep safe now that you are on your own.

You should try to avoid walking on campus by yourself at night. If there is anyways you can walk with a buddy, that will keep you that much safer. Safety in numbers, my friend. Perhaps you are not somewhere where you can walk with someone; many college campuses have security measures set up for this exact reason. You can call your university police department and see if perhaps you can get a police escort to your car or to wherever you may need to go. Another option, although not the best option, but when worst comes to worst, call a friend or family member to talk to them while you walk. This helps make sure nothing happens to you. Many people who are going to steal from you or something of the sorts while you are walking will be deterred from stealing or attacking you if someone else is there with you, you are on the phone, or you are walking with a dog. They see this as a big risk and will be less likely to pick you as a target.

Try to avoid becoming distracted when walking by yourself or while in a sensitive situation. By not using things like your phone or mp3 player, you can become more aware of your surroundings and be on alert for anyone who may be acting suspicious. If you do think someone is acting suspicious, you can call your UPD or even call 911 and inform them of your situation. While you are walking you will want to walk tall and confident, that may make you seem less vulnerable to a thief or attacker. Try to be as prepared as possible so if you do find yourself in a sticky situation you can make it out without harm. This may mean carrying mace or pepper spray with you, or take some self-defense classes so you can fight for yourself if you need to. You may also want to carry a whistle or something that makes noise so you can call attention to yourself and your situation if something does happen. Of course, you don't have to have a whistle, you can yell and scream and do whatever you can to make others aware of you and that you may be in danger. This on its own may prevent someone from attacking you for fear of getting caught or being seen.

These things shouldn't just be for when you are on campus, when you are out and about on the town, remember these safety tips. We all know that there are parties or get togethers that may have alcohol, and you may have a couple drinks. Know your limit before you drink at a party or a bar. It is very hard to stay alert while you are buzzed or drunk and you become an easy target. Just remember to stay alert, stay in well lit areas, and well populated areas. If you feel as though you are unsafe, remember you can always call UPD or 911 and they will help you get to where you need to be or will send someone out to handle whatever situation you are in.

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The Benefits Of Living On Campus As A Freshman

First Year in College

Going off to college can be exciting and also stressful. If you're going to a school that is far away, chances are you aren't going to know anyone right away. However, a way to make sure that you're not left lonely is to dorm the first year you are in college. Living in a dormitory means that you will be surrounded by new people and able to make plenty of friends in no time.

Benefits of Living in a Dormitory

In most resident housing situations, you will find yourself with a roommate. Having a roommate is an excellent way to create a buddy system at the beginning of your freshmen year because you'll have someone to go to student orientation with, and also to check out the campus with. You'll meet neighbors on your floor and in your building that you can bond with during the first couple of days, and you'll find that making new friends is quite easy in a dormitory.

When you live on campus, you are often required to purchase a meal plan. While some college meal plans can be a little expensive, they are definitely convenient and save you time. Having the ability to go somewhere and have a cooked meal without the hassle of grocery shopping and preparation will allow you to focus more time on your studies.

Being around other students who are going through the same transitions emotionally as you are can help you get used to being away from home. For many people, this is their first time away from home and the change can be hard to deal with. Being able to relate to your peers will create a strong support system that will have you embracing your new freedom.

When you are living on campus, you will be in an environment of academically-minded people who are focused on their school work. Working hard and succeeding in college will be easy and fun when you see your classmates hitting the books. Forming study groups is a great way to socialize, while increasing your knowledge and preparedness for class.

Living in a resident hall is like being a part of a community. You will get to take on the role of a member of your academic community, and you will get to redefine yourself once you reach college by choosing whether you want to be respectful to your neighbors or be loud and disorderly or whether you want to be an active member in school clubs, or find your recreation elsewhere. You will find a mixed basket of individuals during your freshman year, which serves to make the experience diverse and interesting.

Even if you are around some people who are choosing to be wild and crazy, there are regulations in place and resident assistants that make sure everything is under control. No one will be able to keep you up all night screaming and playing music, so there's no need to worry. Each college has different rules, but generally they all serve to create a safe environment where everyone can be comfortably themselves.

For people who are just leaving for college for the first time, living on campus is a great idea. You will meet many new people and form valuable connections, and when you are ready to rent an apartment, you will likely have met other students who will make great roommates off campus. If you choose to earn your Bachelor's degree from one of the accredited online universities, you can still opt to live with you peers.

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