Hey everyone, I'm seriously considering applying to Columbia University, but I've heard mixed things about the safety of the surrounding area. Could anyone who has been to the campus or lives nearby provide me with some insight? How do current students or alumni feel about the safety on and around campus? Are there precautions I should take if I end up going there?
Hi! I can understand why safety would be a concern when you're considering a college. Although I don't have personal experience with Columbia University, I've gathered some information for you.
Columbia University is located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of New York City, which has generally been considered safe for college students. The university itself has taken several measures to ensure the safety of its students—there's around-the-clock campus security, blue light emergency phones throughout campus, and a shuttle service that operates at night.
That being said, no area is exempt from crime, and being in an urban setting like NYC means that you should exercise general safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, not walking alone at night, and keeping your personal belongings secure.
Current students and alumni may have various opinions about safety on and around campus. Some might find it very safe, while others may have concerns. Regardless, Columbia works to create a safe environment for its students, and many students have successfully navigated life on campus without facing significant safety issues.
In conclusion, it's important to remember that safety is a subjective experience and can vary from person to person. Columbia University has taken steps to ensure the safety of its students, but you should still exercise general safety precautions just as you would in any other urban environment. If you have the opportunity to visit the campus or talk to current students or alumni, it might help you get a better sense of what the environment is like.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.