Northern Illinois University
- Health & Safety

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If you believe lightning can’t strike the same place twice, then NIU is among the safest college campuses in America. The February 2008 killing spree by a former student came without warning and was largely unpreventable. Police response to the reports of a shooting was rapid and disciplined. The University is constantly updating its security policies as a result of both this event and the previous incident at Virginia Tech University a year earlier. Metal detectors and psychiatric screenings to enter classrooms aren’t forthcoming, so a repeat occurrence is a possibility, but no more so than at any other school. The University is aggressive in protecting the safety of its students. Violent offenders are shown the door before they know what hit them. It’s how non-violent offenders are dealt with that is a matter of controversy. The police sometimes look the other way when it comes to underage drinking, while vandalism and petty theft are issues that will never go away on a campus of this size. Take all necessary precautions and use common sense to protect yourself and your valuables. The services and resources available to students are excellent. The escort service is a godsend, especially in certain dank areas of campus. Emergency assistance call-boxes rarely see use, but it’s nice to know that they are there. Access to the dormitories is also controlled—at least in theory. Vigilance can sometimes depend on the student checking identification.

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Health & Safety at Northern Illinois University

tbug93

'15

English

2.7

C+

Ehh.

NIU isn't horrible, but now that I've been here for almost a year, I kind of wish I had went to a different school. It's really pretty here though. :)

Feb 09, 2012

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Health & Safety at Northern Illinois University

lovesoftballbnail

'15

Athletic Training

3.8

B+

Little Concerned About Safety

I am slightly concerned about the dangers on this campus. I am mostly concerned about the theft and the shootings that happen. The shootings do not happen very often but is still a concern of mine. Walking alone is another concern of mine. In this city, nobody needs to be walking alone especially at night. The good thing is that they have a number you can call for a late night ride and it is also free. I strongly encourage people to use this. I am not worried about dorm safety. We always have campus police sitting at every entrance of the building to check for ids. They are very good about trying to keep us safe.

Feb 03, 2012

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Health & Safety at Northern Illinois University

aliciajs78

'14

Human Services

2.3

C

Security at NIU

I have only been a student at NIU for one sememster. I am sure many are aware of the shooting that took place a few years ago on Valentines day. Several students lost their lives. There is also an increase in gang activity in the Dekalb area. I know that personally, I would not feel very safe walking around alone at night on campus.

Jan 08, 2012

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