As a freshman stepping onto campus for the first time, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of new classes, friendships, and independence. But as you adjust to college life, it’s important to stay mindful of your personal safety. One of the best tools to help you stay safe? TRUalert, a personal safety app built to give you peace of mind wherever your campus experience takes you.
Why is Campus Safety Important?
College campuses can be bustling hubs of activity, but they can also present safety challenges. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2021 there were over 10,400 reported cases of forcible sex offenses on college campuses and over 6,500 burglaries. As a freshman, you may find yourself in unfamiliar environments, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether it’s navigating late-night study sessions or attending events across campus, it’s important to stay vigilant and prepared.
What are the Best Safety Tips for College Freshmen?
1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- Stay alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation. This is especially important when walking home alone on campus at night.
- Avoid distractions: Limit phone use and headphone volume while walking, especially after dark.
- Travel in groups: Walk with friends or classmates, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas. There’s safety in numbers.
- Know your campus: Familiarize yourself with campus security resources, emergency phone numbers, and safe zones. Check out your campus safety website for more detailed information.
2. Secure Your Belongings & Practice Dorm Room Security
-
- Lock Your Doors: Always lock your dorm room and secure valuables, even if you’re just stepping out for a moment. Studies show that simple measures can significantly reduce theft .
- Don’t leave valuables unattended: Keep your phone, laptop, and wallet secure, especially in public areas like libraries and dining halls.
- Be Cautious with Sharing: Don’t share your room key or personal information with strangers. Consider investing in a personal safety alarm for added protection
3. Practice Safe Socializing
- Buddy system: Use the buddy system when going out at night, and make sure someone knows your plans. This is particularly important when attending college parties.
- Be mindful of alcohol: If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and never leave your drink unattended.
- Trust your gut: If you feel uncomfortable in a social situation, don’t hesitate to leave.
4. Utilize Campus Resources
- Campus security: Familiarize yourself with campus security services, such as safety escorts and emergency hotlines. Understand how to report a crime on campus if necessary. Keep their number handy!
- Student support services: Utilize resources like counseling services, health centers, and academic advisors for any concerns or challenges you may face. Many colleges provide these services to ensure student well-being .
5. Don’t Forget TRUalert – Your Safety App for College
TRUalert is a modern personal safety app that connects students to real emergency support—via SMS through its partnership with Noonlight. Whether you feel uneasy walking back to your dorm or notice suspicious behavior, TRUalert has your back.
Resources for Campus Safety
To further enhance your safety on campus, familiarize yourself with the following resources:
- Campus Security Office: Most colleges have a dedicated security office. Make sure you know their contact information and office location. They often provide safety escorts, emergency response, and crime prevention programs.
- Emergency Phones: Locate emergency phone stations around campus, which connect directly to campus security. Knowing where these are can save valuable time in an emergency.
- Counseling Services: Many colleges offer mental health resources for students. If you ever feel unsafe or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to counseling services for support.
- Student Safety Organizations: Look for student-led safety initiatives on campus. These organizations often conduct safety workshops and provide resources to enhance student awareness.
- Local Police Department: Familiarize yourself with the contact information for the local police department, especially if you plan to explore off-campus. They may offer additional resources for community safety.
What is TruAlert?
TRUalert was built to make personal security accessible. With a tap of a button, you can summon help and be connected via SMS with a dispatcher trained to coordinate assistance. Unlike other apps, TRUalert puts you in control—without relying on passive tracking or complex features.
Key Features of TRUalert
- Emergency Button – One tap alerts Noonlight’s trained dispatchers via SMS.
- Safety Pulse – Share and view real-time safety alerts with your community.
- Follow-Up Reports – Receive a secure summary after every emergency activation.
- Privacy First – No live GPS tracking. Location is only shared during emergencies.
- Multi-User Access – Each plan includes up to 2 additional users—great for roommates or family.
Subscription Options
Annual Guardian
$99.90
$129.99
- Annual payment due upon using the 3rd ALERT or at the 12-month mark, whichever comes first
- Follow-up reports provided for each ALERT response
- Reports can be used for police reports, insurance claims, work absence documentation, etc.
- 1 main user, with the option to add 2 additional users
- Automatic renewal on the anniversary date
- Follow-up reports provided for each ALERT response
- Reports can be used for police reports, insurance claims, work absence documentation, etc.
- 1 main user, with the option to add 2 additional users
- Automatic renewal on the anniversary date
TRUalert: Your Safety Net on Campus
College is a time to explore, connect, and grow—but that doesn’t mean you should take risks with your safety. With TRUalert, you have a tool that gives you the power to act fast, get help, and stay informed in any situation.
Download TRUalert today and start your freshman year with confidence, knowing that support is just a tap away—wherever campus life takes you.
