Sign up for my FREE parent tips email and get my FREE Ebook on college financing! Or subscribe to my blog on the left and get email updates.

College is an exciting time; it’s a time to meet new people and experience new things. However, it’s important to remain safe while socializing in college. Often, freshmen run into issues, as this is the first time that they are away from the watchful eye of their parents. By keeping their safety and health in the forefront of their mind freshmen are sure to have an enjoyable and safe first year or college.

Robberies

Depending on the campus, nighttime robberies can be a concern. This is why it’s important to travel in twos or more. Traveling in pairs is especially important for women. Sexual assaults and rapes are under reported on college campuses and are a serious threat and danger to young women and men alike. Freshmen, both male and female, should consider carrying a whistle and pepper spray with them in order to ward of attacks and be in a better position to defend themselves and reach help in a bad situation. If stuck in a dangerous situation always remember that your valuables are replaceable and to give them up without a fight.

Alcohol At College Parties

Parties that occur during high school tend to be at parents houses with a relatively small amount of alcohol available. However, on a college campus there is generally an abundant amount of alcohol and many drinks are made to hide the taste of the alcohol it contains. This is where students can get into trouble imbibing too much alcohol. In addition to these hazardous concoctions, college parties can be dangerous because they may often feature students drinking way past their limit and sometimes end up with individuals hospitalized due to alcohol poisoning. While underage students are highly recommended to avoid such social gatherings, if they do find themselves in this situation it is best to take care of yourself and your friends, as well as encourage others not to drink and drive.

Drugs On Campus

When people think of drugs on a college campus they usually think of marijuana and alcohol. However, increasingly prescription medications are also recreational drugs found on college campuses. An example of one that is used for studying purposes is Adderall. Adderall is often prescribed to an individual with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and is aimed to specifically treat that disorder. It is prevalent on many college campuses and is used to aid in studying, keeping students awake and alert for long periods of time. This is not a beneficial way to study and will directly affect as student’s sleeping schedule and ability to remember information. Along with Adderall, a myriad of other prescription medications such as painkillers and anti depressants are seen on college campuses. Unless directly prescribed such medications, students should never take other’s medications and avoid those who do.

Identity Theft

Another important danger to consider is that of identity theft. Freshmen are used to their parents managing important documentation that holds identifying information. Students may not realize the proper techniques involved when disposing of sensitive paperwork. Often a shredder is best, this eliminates the changes of someone people able to put a paper together and gather identifying information that may lead to identity theft. Also, when on an unsecured wireless network it’s important for students to manage their online accounts and ensure that no hackers can easily access their network and ultimately their information.  Another important safety habit that freshmen should practice is shutting down or locking their computer whenever they are away. This will ensure that no one can access important information whether it’s grades or bank account info. By utilizing proper disposal methods and safety habits regarding sensitive paperwork identity theft is a low level threat.

College is an exciting time for young adults. However, there are certain precautions that must be taken into consideration to ensure the safety and good health of all freshmen. By having an understanding of the dangers that abound on college campuses students and parents alike are better prepared for the journey ahead of them. Safety is key in maintaining good grades and good health.

_______________________

Author Bio

Andy Lawson is a blogger and writer who focuses on college health. In this article, he attempts to explain what to expect when attending social gatherings while in college and wishes to promote further study through ADU Online RN to BSN Programs.