Campus safety comes under fire
Even at schools in Memphis, campus security has been increased as more colleges are viewed as unsafe. Public universities, at this rate, will eventually catch up with private campus security, though it is debatable as to whether either type of school will arm themselves to the same degree as military campuses.
Student uproar. Parent outcry. Teacher protest. As schools face an increasing number of violent incidents, college campuses have come under scrutiny with people calling for security modifications.
Even around Memphis’s local campuses, there have been questionable episodes or instances in which students felt unsafe while making their way around the schools.
“There’s been people being followed by a car in the night while they’re going home and other suspicious activities,” Sara Williamson (11) said.
Though some feel the need for greater measures, there are individuals who continue to feel safe while touring potential schools.
“I haven’t ever really been on a college campus where I felt especially unsafe,” Alan Lopez (12) said. “Everything I’ve heard of came from gun violence or vandalism in grade schools.
People who have more experience and have dealt with multiple colleges can, with certainty, say that there have been improvements in campus security over time.
“I think all colleges have changed the way the campuses are being secured…I think everybody is really trying to be more vigilant in safety,” guidance counselor Leslie Fleming said.
Still, when it comes to safety, it may be said that you are better safe than sorry. Individuals can also take measures to help protect themselves while out and about alone or at night.
“I would say don’t go out alone. I always want to go out with a friend or just always having someone know where you are or what you’re doing,” Williamson said.
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