In a somewhat-hidden corridor in Scott Quad, there's a place many people fear going to: the Ohio University Police Department offices.
I sit waiting patiently to have a conversation with Ohio University graduate and OUPD Lt. Tim Ryan. He offers me a seat, and I pull out my notebook and pen.
Underage drinking is a problem on college campuses, but you may be surprised to learn that it is not the cops' main concern.
Do they care if you are underage? Absolutely.
But what Lt. Ryan tells me is they look more for people who are a danger to property, themselves and others.
If you happen to be underage and they catch you, then they catch you. “We don’t just sit and wait for young looking kids drinking,” Ryan said.
I am not saying you should drink underage, but I am suggesting you drink responsibly and in a smart way. No matter your age, you’re less likely to get in trouble with the law.
The biggest crime in college isn’t what most might think. It isn’t drugs, roofies in drinks or assault — it's theft.
Unlocked dorm rooms with cell phones and cash are easy grabs for pocket thieves. Cars parked in alleyways or unattended laptops at the library are often victims of campus crime.
When you aren't worried about trying to find someone to watch your computer while you take a bathroom break at Alden, you might be headed Uptown or to Mill Street. Here's a few things to keep in mind before you turn up:
Don’t walk home alone.
Always have a sober friend.
Never take a drink from someone at a party.
If you set your cup down, get a new drink.
Leave if you don’t feel comfortable.
Now, I may sound like your mother, but mothers are always right. OU is a safe campus, but one can never be too safe. Even in the safest parts of the world, bad things happen. Keep that in mind whenever taking part in a risky situation.
When you’re at a party that gets shut down and you haven’t been drinking or you have average motor skills, no need to have a heart attack — just leave. The cops are trying to shut it down for for the safety of the partygoers if it gets a little too close to Project X. They are on the lookout for wild drunks, not you — but if you are bit too lit, try to sober up ASAP.
If you are being smart about safety, go out and have fun. We are OU, known for partying and academics, so, as Bobcats, I think we can do it. Be safe, be studious and still have the college experience.
Lauren Sheil is a freshman studying strategic communication at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. How do you keep safe when you hit the town? Let Lauren know by tweeting her @laurensheil101.
