When I was exploring colleges in cities, more specifically DC, my high school best friend announced her plan to buy me a bullet-proof vest for graduation. (To be fair, I bought her a pail and wished her happy cow-tipping in Middleofnowheresville, Pennsylvania). I got that reaction a lot: “You’re going to get shot!”
I’m happy to report that my four years in DC have been bullet free. Being in a city is fun and exciting—there’s always something to do. But my friends weren’t totally crazy—city living has its dangers. I think that the amazing benefits far outweigh any risks involved. There are some very simple things you can do to stay safe and enjoy the district.
- Don’t walk around by yourself at night. Really this is a good tip if you’re in a city or busy cow-tipping. There’s safety in numbers, plus it’s more fun.
- Pay attention to what’s going on around you. This doesn’t mean that you have to be crazy paranoid and think every person is out to get you. You should just be aware if there are people around you.
- Stick together when you're drinking. If you’re going to drink, make sure you know who you’re with, and how you’re getting home. Don’t go home with someone you don’t know. When I go out with my friends, regardless of what happens while we’re out, we all leave together.
- If you get stuck in the city somewhere and you don’t have money for a taxi, don’t worry! If you tell the taxi to go to Public Safety, they will pay the driver for you. The cost gets put on your bill, but it’s better than wandering around the city at 3 AM or trying to walk home from downtown.
Take full advantage of what DC has to offer. Don’t let people from home scare you into staying on campus. Use your common sense and you’ll have an unforgettable 4 years.
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