USA is one of the most preferred destinations for students from other countries giving the availability of world-class universities, various cultures, and countless opportunities. Additionally, on a consistent basis, safety is often mentioned as a major issue, which comes primarily from high crime rates that remain high in almost every state and city.
Safety should not be one of the primary reasons for an international student’s attention. Instead of the whole country being defined by the crime rates, we must understand that there are areas that experience higher crime rates. They are also the same areas where crime is highly concentrated and people should understand that certain regions have higher crime rates. With the right attitude and learning the specifics of the area where they will study, students from abroad can find their educational pathway safe and successful.
Understanding Crime Rates in the USA
The UCR (Uniform Crime Report) program depicts that the crime rates in large cities are slightly higher than rural areas with New York and Denver standing as examples. While these cities are places of hustle and bustle, they can, of course, have crime too; but having sufficient security measures keeps it at absolute minimum.
The fluctuation in criminal activity statistics is more general across US states and towns than it would initially appear. One example is that some towns such as Biloxi, Mississippi, and San Ramon, California, are relatively safe even though they have Facebook to communicate regularly with friends.
Besides, crime is something that may happen anywhere- even in the smaller towns and not just an issue for the major cities. Nevertheless, the fact remains that quite a lot of larger towns have safe and affordable student areas. It should be noted that universities are often in areas where crime rates are relatively lower and there are support systems in place.
However, it is important to come to the realization that these are only the beginning of the statistics and that they cannot determine whether an international student can be safe in the USA.
Safety Measures for International Students
Crime still happens everywhere and international students will always be exposed to attacks anywhere in the world. But here are some ways international students can stay safe in the USA:
1. Research Your Destination
Be sure to look up the school’s area before you move in. Learn about the streets, the public transport which is nearby and the facilities they have there. The familiarity of the neighborhood and the cultural insights one can gain can be guarantees for the urban guard route and the safe areas.
2. Connect with University Resources
Universities usually have services like orientation and International Student office that aim at International Students. To avoid some harmful events, you may study safeness protocols during orientation, have emergency services around your area, or join social support groups. These schools often offer services such as specialized offices to help international students.
3. Utilize Campus Safety Services
To help you on campus when you need personal safety services like safe escorts, transportation options, and any other emergency notification systems. These services are always vigilant to protect students from any hazards, especially when they are involved in events that take place at night or are walking by themselves.
4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Be conscious of your environment. Do not get distracted while walking by using your phone, this is especially true in unfamiliar places. Go with your gut feeling; trust your intuition if you feel uncomfortable and leave.
5. Build a Social Network
Networking with both international and local students will help in developing supportive friendship and safety in numbers will thus make students’ targets less. Cooperative events of student organizations and community happenings should be engaged in since they are good ways for seeking friendship with others.
6. Educate Yourself on Local Laws and Customs
Apprehending local laws, customs, and practices is a way to avoid threatening situations that might be as a result of questionable understanding. You should familiarize yourself with the legal drinking age requirement, traffic laws, and other regulations different from your home country.
7. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
One of the best things is to create a list of the numbers you might need, like local emergency services, campus security, and your country’s embassy or consulate, which could be saved to your phone. Having access to these contacts while you are in a crisis situation can save time and possibly human lives.
Conclusion: Embracing Safety as an International Student
While the concerns about safety have existed a lot of time, international students can get the most rewarding experience in the US by taking some steps. The crime situation in different cities is one of the most important aspects to be considered; however, it can’t be the only thing to worry when students are studying. The inputs of being safe are preparation, education, awareness, and the utilization of resources.
International students can achieve safety and academic attainment if they are proactive in terms of their safety measures and having careful investigations through other people’s experiences that were of diverse cultural backgrounds. Studying abroad is not just for academics but also plays a vital role in personal growth and bonding in relationships.
Learn about studying in USA.