U.S. universities have many protocols in place to ensure the safety and security of students, including the international community
Posted Date – 12:15 AM, Sun – 1/1/23
Students should keep important emergency phone numbers and keep them close at hand in case the need arises
Hyderabad: U.S. universities have many protocols in place to keep students (including the international community) safe. While these safety measures are evolving as the school aims to ensure the wellbeing of its students, parents, families, and international students can refer to some of the resources below for any concerns related to student safety.
• View campus crime statistics: U.S. federal law requires all institutions of higher education to disclose statistics on the number and types of crimes that occur on each campus. One way to check this data is to visit the university webpage. Another way is to use http://ope.ed.gov/security/’s Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Slicing Tool.
• Learn about available resources: Most universities have their own campus police who patrol campus 24/7, respond to emergencies and take an active role in student and staff activities. In addition to campus police, American University also has a campus security team that offers late-night security and safety services, emergency calls, a 24-hour hotline, and an app that helps students connect directly to the emergency desk if needed. The campus also offers professional mental health counselors who can be contacted for any type of counseling, including trauma.
• ask questions: Before choosing to apply to a university, students can make an appointment with a university’s admissions and international student counselor to review security policies and other services available to students. Students should refer to the University Safety Resources page for safety procedures and protocols.
• Familiarize yourself with the campus: When students arrive at the University, they should attend any orientation programs offered and familiarize themselves with campus security and the location of classrooms and other important buildings and facilities. Students should save important emergency phone numbers and keep them close at hand in case the need arises.
• Be vigilant: You play a vital role in your own safety – be careful, vigilant and alert at all times. Students are sometimes carried away by the degree of freedom in college, which can lead to accidents. Avoid situations where you may find yourself in danger and always act responsibly. Nothing is worth compromising your safety.
While U.S. universities are proactive when it comes to student safety, it’s important to remember that most campuses are closed to the public. So while you can expect universities to have many crime prevention policies in place, there is no substitute for keeping yourself safe by avoiding dangerous situations and substances – know your limits and stick to them.
