Whether you’re earning your degree on campus or online, feeling safe and secure in your learning environment is essential to your success as a college student. Feeling safe allows you to focus on your studies, make new friends, and truly thrive on your academic journey. Goodwin University understands this and provides a vibrant and secure learning environment for all students. This commitment is reflected by a range of readily available support services and initiatives.
By familiarizing yourself with the resources available and practicing everyday awareness, you can empower yourself to navigate your time at college with confidence and peace of mind. Here are five safety tips that will guide you through the steps necessary to make informed choices and promote a safe and enjoyable educational experience during your time in college.
1. Be resource aware
Familiarize yourself with the safety resources offered by your campus. This includes knowing the contact information for campus security, how to report suspicious activity, and where emergency call boxes are located.
Psychological safety is just as important as your physical well-being as you balance the warring demands of both your personal and professional lives. Knowing where to turn for help empowers you to navigate any situation. Learn about any counseling services available to you while in school so you can properly address any mental health needs that may arise.
2. Practice everyday awareness
Stay alert and pay attention to your surroundings. This means ditching the headphones entirely, or at least keeping one ear free, so you can stay in tune to what’s happening around you. Trust your gut instincts — if a situation feels off, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away or change your course.
Planning your route beforehand is crucial, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, well-populated walkways whenever possible, and avoid isolated areas if you can. Consider the buddy system — there’s safety in numbers, so walk with a friend or classmate.
Want to learn more about Goodwin’s comprehensive safety resources? Visit our dedicated campus safety webpage for a complete overview!
3. Prioritize security
Make a habit of locking your vehicle — forming this routine can prevent a crime of opportunity. Valuables like laptops, phones, and wallets should never be left unattended in public spaces, even for a quick moment.
If you find yourself walking alone at night, especially on unfamiliar streets, consider sharing your location with a trusted friend through a safety app. This way, they can keep an eye on your progress and offer help if needed. By being mindful of these precautions, you can significantly increase your sense of security and peace of mind.
4. Be smart online
The campus isn’t just your physical environment. Rather, it extends to social media and the internet, especially now with hybrid and remote learning opportunities. It’s crucial to be just as vigilant online as you are on campus. If you have any technological safety concerns, please contact Goodwin’s IT department.
When it comes to social media, be mindful of what you share publicly. This means protecting your personal information, being cautious about what you share on social media, and using strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Remember, once something is online, it can be difficult (if not impossible,) to erase completely. By practicing good cyber hygiene, you can safeguard your identity and avoid unnecessary risks.
5. Consider bystander intervention
Bystander intervention plays a crucial role in preventing potentially harmful situations. If you see someone in a risky situation, use your best judgment and recognize the warning signs so you can intervene safely. Techniques can include a direct approach or seeking help from authorities. Choose to be an upstander instead.
Goodwin University is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students. By following these tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can be proactive about your own safety. Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help — don’t hesitate to use the resources available on campus and online. For more information, visit the Goodwin University Department of Campus Safety.