Whether we have visited the United States or not we all tend to have our opinions of what we think it will be like. However, often our opinions are formed by the media that report of the extreme cases of violence or by films that are over heightened versions of what is real. After all who wants to read about what a nice day the Americans have had or watch the everyday and mundane activities of the average guy on the street. This simply is not dramatic enough to catch your average viewer in the competitive age where media images tend to dominate.
However, it is fair enough to be concerned about your safety when coming to study in any country that is unfamiliar to you. Let it be said however, that the Unites States is like any major country where some areas are extremely safe and other areas are not. This article provides some basic tips on how to stay "streetwise" whilst studying in the U.S.
1) Safety in numbers
when you fist arrive at your university and you wish to explore your area always do this with someone. In particular if you are placed within a main city and are using the public transport
2) Accommodation tips
If you are living on campus get to know your Head Resident. This person has been placed inside the dorms to make sure that you settle into your new home and that the dorms are safe. They may also be the appropriate people to seek general advice about the areas to avoid outside of campus.
If you are in shared accommodation off campus then avoid staying in rooms on ground level, keeping windows open that are not necessary and always try to make the house look occupied i.e. leaving lights or the radio on when out.
3) Making yourself at home
Find out who the Security Officer is on campus. Familiarise yourself with your campus and use your common sense. Stick to well lit paths and always try and let someone know where you are going or if you are on your way to them.
4)Excess Baggage
If you are out day or night try to avoid wearing excess jewellery and carrying 16 amounts of cash. Also if you are carrying a bag make sure that you securely have it on your person.
5) A confident trick
Do remember that criminals usually tend to pray on the weak so look confident when on the streets and in the direction that you are going!
By being "streetwise", avoiding certain areas and sticking to basic rules you should have no problems. Most of the information above is based on common sense logic that you can apply to any country. Relying on our instincts is what helps us survive the trials of everyday life so use them here.
If you are particularly concerned about your safety then contact your main Student Officer who will be able to go through any safety issues with you and help you to familiarise yourself with your surroundings. They may also be able to give you any details on clubs available in self -defence. This may help to improve your confidence and make you more assertive when placed in threatening circumstances. However, typically students that have travelled to the states generally believe that familiarising yourself and becoming "streetwise" to your area is all the skills you should need.
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