<p>pleaseadvise-- very much agreed with OhioMom. It is important to be alert and aware of your surroundings in any urban setting, but it is very possible to do so if you take advantage of the many safety resources UChicago makes available to students. Campus police is responsible for security both on campus and in the surrounding area, and patrols on foot, on scooter, and by car; they are reachable by phone or by emergency phone poles placed on and off campus. We also have a free campus shuttle service that runs from 6pm-early morning for safe, reliable transit for students, both along predetermined routes and through a “Safe Ride” van that operates like a free taxi service within Hyde Park. Campus and the surrounding area are well-lit at night, and crossing guards/police personnel are able to walk with you or drive behind you as you walk if you are out alone and wish to have company. Buildings require an ID card swipe to enter after hours, and dormitories have front desk staff and a card-swipe system for entry 24/7. </p>
<p>As a (female, physically wimpy) graduate of the College who still lives in the Hyde Park neighborhood, I have never been in a situation either on or off-campus in which I have felt unsafe. But, I also take precautions-- not walking with my iPod on after dark, using campus resources like the Safe Ride shuttle, and going places with friends-- for my own peace of mind.</p>