Hi everyone, I'm considering attending Ohio State University for college, but I'm a bit concerned about safety on and around campus. What's the crime rate like at OSU and in the surrounding areas? Are there any relevant crime statistics I should be aware of?
Hello! It's natural to be concerned about safety when considering a college, and I'm happy to provide some information on this topic.
The Ohio State University (OSU) is located in Columbus, Ohio, which is the 14th largest city in the United States. As with any large urban area, crime rates vary depending on the neighborhood. Ohio State's campus itself is quite large, with many nearby communities that house students, faculty, and staff.
Campus safety is a priority for OSU, and they have numerous preventive measures in place, such as the OSUPD (Ohio State University Police Division) which is specifically dedicated to campus security. OSU also has a crime alert system called Buckeye Alert that notifies community members about potential safety issues on campus and provides safety tips.
In terms of statistics, OSU publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, which provides information about reported criminal incidents and fire-related incidents on campus and in the surrounding area. The most recent report can be accessed here: https://dps.osu.edu/sites/default/files/2021-22_annual_security_report.pdf. I suggest reviewing this report to get a comprehensive understanding of the campus safety measures and crime statistics.
It's also worth noting that crime statistics can vary from year to year. While the report may give you an idea of recent trends, it is important to keep in mind this is just one source of information, and experiences may differ depending on one's individual situations and lifestyle choices.
Overall, it's essential to take common-sense precautions and be aware of your surroundings, whether you're on the OSU campus or elsewhere. This could include traveling with a buddy, especially after dark, locking your doors and windows, and using the campus transportation/shuttle services that OSU offers during late-night hours. Additionally, you may want to speak with current OSU students or join online forums to get personal accounts of safety experiences on and around campus.
Best of luck in your college decision-making process!
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