Safety Tips: Welcome Week 2023

Welcome Week is a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with campus, meet new people and explore your new college community. Below are resources to keep in mind for a fun and safe Welcome Week. 

Navigating campus

If you’re worried about walking alone to welcome week activities, never fear, as thousands of people will be in attendance! We encourage you to stick with your Welcome Week Leader and small group during events, and travel with those in the same residence hall back home each night. Our Department of Public Safety (DPS) will be around throughout the week, looking out for you and providing assistance to get you where you need to be. 

Make use of these resources whenever possible. Visit Safe Campus for quick access to more safety resources.

• Use our interactive Campus Maps to navigate campus, find accessible building entrances, and discover other safe walking resources.
• Call 624-WALK (612-624-9255) for a member of University Security to walk with you to and from campus locations and adjacent neighborhoods. Add the phone number to your contacts for quick access now, and all year long. 
• If you’re by yourself, download the Rave Guardian app to have a virtual walking buddy. Enter your location, set a timer, and make your way to your destination. If the timer expires before you deactivate it, your chosen contact and DPS will be notified. 
• Use the GopherTrip app for times and routing information of our campus shuttles should you choose to use them.
• Don’t forget your U Card! You’ll need it for check-in and building access, among other things. Make sure it’s on you at all times.
• Be mindful of increased traffic due to the Minnesota State Fair if you need to travel through St. Paul. Visit the Parking and Transportation Services website for more information. 

Pride and Spirit night

On Wednesday, August 30, you’ll get to experience University traditions and class camaraderie at Huntington Bank Stadium. As such, please review the stadium’s prohibited items and bag policy. Of note, items like pepper spray and umbrellas are not allowed in the stadium. Bags and items needed for medical purposes will be allowed after security screening. 

See you soon!

Please direct any questions or concerns to Orientation and Transition Experiences at 612-624-1979 or [email protected].