How can I choose a safe college?

Safety on campus is really important to me. How do I find out which colleges are safer and have lower crime rates? Are there any resources you all recommend I check out when researching schools?

It's great that you are prioritizing safety while researching colleges. Campus safety should definitely be a factor when considering where you would like to study. Here are some ways to assess the safety of college campuses:

1. Clery Act Reports: Colleges and universities in the United States are required by law to comply with the Clery Act by maintaining and disclosing campus crime statistics and security information. You can access these reports on each college's website, usually in the campus safety or campus police section. This will give you an understanding of the crime rates at the institution and the measures in place to combat them.

2. College websites: Most colleges have dedicated safety or campus police sections on their websites that provide an insight into the security measures and resources available on campus (e.g., blue light emergency phones, escort services, self-defense classes, etc.). Review this information for the schools you're considering to get a sense of their commitment to student safety.

3. College tours and information sessions: When you visit college campuses or attend virtual information sessions, don't hesitate to ask about campus safety. Admissions officers or tour guides will be able to provide first-hand insight into the school's safety measures and the overall atmosphere on campus. This is also an opportunity to ask specific questions about safety concerns you might have.

4. Online college forums and reviews: Websites like CollegeVine, College Confidential, and Niche, as well as social media platforms like Facebook or Reddit, have forums where current students and alumni discuss various aspects of their colleges, including safety. You can search for safety-related topics or ask questions to get a sense of students' experiences and perceptions of safety on a particular campus.

5. Reach out to current students or alumni: Talking to current students or alumni can provide a clearer picture of campus safety from those who have experienced it first-hand. If you know someone who attends or has attended a college you're interested in, ask them about their experiences and any safety concerns they may have had.

Remember that campus safety statistics should be viewed in the context of the location and size of the college. A larger college in an urban area might have more crime incidents reported simply due to its size and location. It's important to evaluate the safety measures implemented by the college to address these concerns.

Always trust your instincts and feelings about a college's safety. Remember that it is essential to feel comfortable and secure on the campus where you will spend the next few years. Good luck with your college search!