How Safe are the Students at University of Connecticut

The advent of camera phones and rise of social media has sent ripples through our modern justice system. Crimes can be recorded in real time, live updates can be shared via Twitter streams and that feeling of mystery seems to be a thing of the past. Established in 1881, the University of Connecticut now hosts approximately 18,000 undergraduates on its 4,400 acre campus in Storrs. Student safety at the university has been cast in a negative light by the media as of late, with multiple student deaths and backlash from survivors of sexual assault who said that the system was less than accommodating. Still, there are those who claim that at base level, the university has efficient safety measures in place that make them feel secure while going about their days. Read on, because we’re going to break down the good, the bad and the downright ugly.

Safety protocols typical of most campuses are in place at the University of Connecticut. They’re enforced by the local police department, which, “Pledges to protect and serve by safeguarding the future of our community through education, understanding and mutual respect.” Blue light posts are strategically placed around campus, offering emergency assistance at just the push of a button. Their Alert Notification System sends out texts and emails to students in real time when a potentially dangerous situation is unfolding, or has recently taken place. Students are encouraged to enroll in self-defense classes, and dorms are kept locked down. A majority of students say that these measures are enough to keep the campus safe. Others wholeheartedly disagree.

In 2015, 5 students died in one semester. Causes of death were varied and weren’t related to violence or drugs, but they did spur a greater discussion about campus safety. The University of Connecticut is no stranger to parties. In fact, one recent video of an intoxicated student getting into a fight with a police officer at a dining hall went viral. Students do sometimes fear for their safety during Spring Weekend, perhaps the most notable party weekend of the year, and during holidays. Sporting events have resulted in riots in the past. What’s one of the most unfortunate products of underage drinking? Sexual assault.

Curious about what else you should know? We’ve got 5 things a recent alum wishes she’d known before attending that could help you make your decision.

There’s a general feeling that survivors of sexual assault are not given the proper care that they deserve from the school. Five sexual assault victims, all of whom were University of Connecticut students, recently were awarded a $1.3 million settlement after filing two federal complaints with the Department of Education. The article says that the University of Connecticut is one of 67 institutions currently under investigation for the mishandling of sexual assault cases. Administrators haven’t admitted to any wrongdoing on their behalf, and claim that they paid out the settlement money to avoid an ongoing trial. A Civility Task Force was launched to assess the campus climate. Whatever your stance may be, these high-profile and controversial cases have led to a wary attitude among the student body. Some aren’t so sure if they can trust school officials.

To stay safe, there are several simple rules you and your fellow Huskies should follow. First, the obvious: don’t walk alone late at night in unlit areas. Be vigilant when in social places where people are drinking to excess; there’s always a level of unpredictability. Most importantly, take advantage of the school’s escort and Safe Ride services. While some students might place a stigma on using them, there’s nothing shameful about ensuring you arrive home safe and sound. Hopefully these recent cases will prompt even more discussion about improving protocols. Until then, the University of Connecticut resides in a gray zone of safety. Things don’t go wrong often, but when they do, they’re not often handled smoothly.

Ryan James is a ’13 alumnus of Ohio University’s College of Arts & Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in writing and media. He currently works as a copywriter for a Fortune 500 e-commerce corporation based in Columbus, OH.