Hi all, I've been looking at a few colleges in Pennsylvania for my higher studies and Pennsylvanian colleges sure have some strong programs. However, I'm pretty concerned about safety. Can anyone shed some light on which colleges in Pennsylvania have a higher crime index or are known for being generally unsafe? It would really help me out in my college applications.
Safety is an important aspect to consider when choosing a college. However, it's important to understand that crime statistics can sometimes be misleading since they also include minor offenses. That being said, certain colleges in Pennsylvania do tend to have higher reported crime rates. Based on public safety reports and other data, here are some that come to mind:
1. Temple University, located in northern Philadelphia, has a comparatively higher crime rate, especially for crimes like burglary and robbery. The campus is in the heart of a big city, so it's susceptible to urban crime.
2. University of Pennsylvania, despite being an Ivy League school with world-class facilities, does occasionally struggle with safety issues. This is mainly because it's in an urban location and sees a meaningful number of property crimes.
3. Drexel University, which is also located in Philadelphia, has a higher crime index in comparison with certain other universities in the state.
4. Penn State University, particularly its University Park campus, has noted several liquor and drug law violations mostly associated with off-campus parties.
It's important to note that higher crime rates don't always translate to an unsafe environment. A higher rate can also mean the university is diligent in reporting all instances to create transparency. Many colleges offer safety measures such as campus police, security cameras, well-lit pathways, escort services, and emergency call boxes.
Ultimately, getting a sense of safety on campus might require more than just staring at statistics. If possible, consider visiting these campuses, talking to current students, and getting a feel for the environment yourself.
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