Staying Safe on Campus

Concordia is located in a relatively small town with a relatively small student population. However, it is still important to minimize the risks and be smart about your own personal safety.

Here are my top tips and resources to help you stay safe on campus and the neighboring area.

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS.

This may seem like a basic step. Yet how many times have you been walking down the sidewalk texting your friends and realize that you almost ran into another person? This happens so frequently that it is almost scary. If you are not aware of who is around you, who is?

ALWAYS USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT.

Now I admit it, I haven’t always been one to stick with this tip. Still, I believe this is one of the most important tips I have to give. Always travel in pairs, especially when walking off campus.

STAY IN WELL-LIT AREAS.

If you haven’t noticed the vast amounts of light posts on campus, you will now. It seems like every 15 feet there is another light and this isn’t without design. Concordia is well lit because it helps people see their surroundings as well as serving as a deterrent for crime.

LET FRIENDS KNOW YOUR WHEREABOUTS.

If you are walking from one person’s house to the next or simply walking across campus to a friend’s dorm room, let them know when you plan to arrive. If your friends worry that it is taking you too long to get there, they should call Public Safety immediately.

IF YOU EVER DON’T FEEL SAFE ON CAMPUS, CALL PUBLIC SAFETY.

Someone will answer the phone at all times, day or night. They are available to escort you to your car or across campus, or check on situations that make you uncomfortable. The Security/Public Safety Office number is 218.299.3123. Add it to your contacts on your cellphone.

Other Resources

Even with all of these tips to help you stay alert to what is happening around you, it is just as important to know the resources that are offered to all Concordia students.

IT’S ON US

It’s On Us is a program on campus that teaches students and faculty/staff about the warning signs of sexual assault and how we as a Cobber community can protect one another by standing up against sexual assault. In this program, students pledge themselves to identify situations when sexual assault may happen and to take action when they see a possible sexual assault taking place.

COUNSELING CENTER AND DISABILITY SERVICES

Concordia’s Counseling Center offers free individual, couple and group counseling services to all enrolled students.

HEALTH SERVICES OFFICE

The Health Services Office gives assistance to students who need health services off of campus. Clinic services are not available directly on campus. 

Please take care and be safe. See you on campus.