It’s no secret that college campuses can be dangerous places. From pranks gone wrong to robberies, students need to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe. Crime rates are higher on college campuses than in the general population, so it is necessary to be vigilant. College can be an amazing experience, but protecting yourself is a central part of making the most out of your time on campus. Don’t let yourself get anxious about it, there’s a lot you can do to improve your safety at school. If you want to know what you can do, read on for three ways to stay safe on your college campus.

1. Do your research and choose a safe college to attend.

Protecting yourself at school starts before you even decide where you want to go to college. You should also research the campus security features. Does the school have a 24-hour security guard? Are the buildings well-lit? Are there emergency phones scattered around the campus? These are all things you should consider when choosing a school. Another thing to consider is the location of the school. If the school is in a dangerous neighborhood, it may not be the safest choice. Though it’s okay to be choosy, keep in mind that acceptance rates are hitting record lows. It won’t be easy to get into your dream school.

The best way you can ensure you’ll end up attending a college that you love is to work with a college application counselor. There are countless benefits to working with a college counselor. Perhaps the most obvious is that they can help you navigate the complex and often overwhelming college admissions process. They can provide valuable insight into the many different schools available to you and can help you select the best program for your unique needs and interests.

2. Find out more about the people you’ll be living with.

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If you want to be extra careful, you could consider using a service like True People Search to see any public records that may be related to your potential roommate. Do your due diligence and check out your potential roommate before you commit to living with them. Background checks are a great way to get to know more about someone, and they can tell you a lot about a person’s character. Although it’s unlikely that your new dorm buddy has a secret criminal past, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. A public records search or a background check can provide you with some peace of mind as you adjust to college life.

3. Always be aware of your surroundings.

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When you are on campus, be aware of your surroundings. There are many things that you need to watch out for, including people who may be trying to take your belongings or who may be following you. Make sure that you keep your valuables close to you and that you are aware of who is around you. If you feel like you are in danger, be sure to find a safe place to go and contact campus security.

Awareness is even more essential when you’re socializing, as parties can get out of hand. If you find yourself in a dangerous or uncomfortable situation, try to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible. If you can’t leave, try to make as much noise as possible to attract attention and get help. Always make sure to have a plan to get home safely. If you’re going to be drinking, have a friend or family member pick you up or make sure you have a way to get home.

Campus safety is one of the most important aspects of any college experience. You want to feel protected on your college campus, whether you’re walking around at night or studying in the library. It is vital that students feel comfortable while attending school, and that they know that they can rely on their school to support them in the event of an accident or emergency. No matter what college you choose, always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe, especially at social events.

By Manali