University of California - Los AngelesHealth & Safety Summary

Written by Suzy Strutner

Suzy Strutner

Hometown

Newport Beach, Calif.

Major

Communication Studies

View all previous student authors

Given its big city location, UCLA is a very secure campus by day—the school boasts its own police force and an on-campus record including little more than petty theft. Although campus doesn't feel as safe at night due to its openness and size, UCPD works hard to make Bruins feel assured. Community Service Officers (CSO) are student police who respond to calls for a van ride or walk home from anywhere on campus or in parts of Westwood. Students can simply dial 835-WALK anytime from after dusk until 1 a.m. for an escort, no questions asked.

Once safely at your dorm, you'll encounter Access Control. This team keeps non-residents from trying to enter dorms from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Residents must swipe their ID card to enter a dorm during these hours and need to sign in non-resident guests. However, this is not the case in suite-style buildings, which are open to any visitor (or intruder, for that matter) who wishes to enter. Though incidents are rare, the suites are usually the target of on-campus burglaries. While acts of violence or robbery near campus are rare, they are definitely not out of the question in an urban world such as UCLA's. Unlocked off-campus apartments have recently been the target of burglaries, and a smattering of girls have been assaulted while walking solo. However, if caution and care are used, you should feel secure at school.