U of A - Safety (Tucson, Pima: crime, transfer, schools)

[StriderMatic]

Hello everyone,

I am considering whether or not to Tucson to study at U of Arizona.

I think the problem isn't the quality of the school, it's what I keep hearing about the crime.
Besides a lot of what I've heard from residents of Tucson on this forum, I've looked at statistics and it seems pretty bad, and a large part of it is apparently where the University is.

Can anyone tell me how dangerous the campus and its surrounding area is?

Also, what places are safe(est) to live? On-Campus? Off-Campus (and if so, WHERE)?

Finally, how safe is it to ride the bus (not only on campus but through the city as well)?


Any other advice would be appreciated.


By the way, I ask all this because I haven't lived in areas with this level of crime and therefore am not as used to it or numb to it as other people may be. Therefore I want to know honestly what it is like to live there while I am still considering everything.

Also, I don't mean any disrespect to residents of the city by asking this question. I just want to be prepared if I end up becoming a resident of Tucson myself.

I know this topic has been on the forum a number of times, but am looking for specific information as it pertains to the university and adjacent/relevant parts of the city.

Thank you to everyone for your time.

[sierraAZ]

Originally Posted by StriderMatic

Hello everyone,

I am considering whether or not to Tucson to study at U of Arizona.

I think the problem isn't the quality of the school, it's what I keep hearing about the crime.
Besides a lot of what I've heard from residents of Tucson on this forum, I've looked at statistics and it seems pretty bad, and a large part of it is apparently where the University is.

Can anyone tell me how dangerous the campus and its surrounding area is?

Also, what places are safe(est) to live? On-Campus? Off-Campus (and if so, WHERE)?

Finally, how safe is it to ride the bus (not only on campus but through the city as well)?


Any other advice would be appreciated.


By the way, I ask all this because I haven't lived in areas with this level of crime and therefore am not as used to it or numb to it as other people may be. Therefore I want to know honestly what it is like to live there while I am still considering everything.

Also, I don't mean any disrespect to residents of the city by asking this question. I just want to be prepared if I end up becoming a resident of Tucson myself.

I know this topic has been on the forum a number of times, but am looking for specific information as it pertains to the university and adjacent/relevant parts of the city.

Thank you to everyone for your time.

I've never felt uncomfortable around U of A. As a matter of fact, I like going to the campus occasionally. University St. is a little pocket of the kind of lifestyle I miss and crave.

I've been on a bus a few times. I think it's OK. Well, there are some quirky types, but nothing even remotely dangerous.

[StriderMatic]

Thanks for your input

Does anyone else have any advice about Tucson and the area around the University?

[Daniel_T]

The area around the immediate area of the University is more student type housing and residential style housing. A bit further out and you get into some less desirable areas. the University is after all in Central Tucson which is one of the higher crime areas in the city, though you shouldn't have any problems. I live in Central Tucson about 2 miles north of the University and have never been a victime of crime. As long as you take precautions and don't act idiotic, then you should be okay. I have been down to the UA quite a few times and have never felt unsafe. I know for a fact from friends that go to the U of A that it is quite safe and the school does a pretty good job of making sure students feel comfortable. Hope this helps!!!

[veuvegirl]

I attended the U of A years ago; and never felt unsafe. That said it was the number one University for rape at that time. They had security that would escort you if you asked.

I would just recommend don't be caught by yourself at night; always walk with a buddy. It is a HUGE party school; so if you are not disciplined you can get caught up in the scene very easily.

I guess it depends on what you are looking for....I had a lot of fun, but quite honestly didn't learn much.

[cowcat]

Originally Posted by veuvegirl

I attended the U of A years ago; and never felt unsafe. That said it was the number one University for rape at that time. They had security that would escort you if you asked.

I would just recommend don't be caught by yourself at night; always walk with a buddy. It is a HUGE party school; so if you are not disciplined you can get caught up in the scene very easily.

I guess it depends on what you are looking for....I had a lot of fun, but quite honestly didn't learn much.

Veuvegirl, would you send your son or daughter there? If not, where else would you rather see them go? ASU? NAU?

[veuvegirl]

If I was choosing in AZ; I would choose NAU. I think those schools are too big; and too many pitfalls you can fall in; unless you are disciplined.

I was a great HS student; because I had my parents riding my a$$ the entire time. Once I got to college; I let loose, and it was too easy to do! Class sizes for the undergraduate basic courses are 500+ people.

There is no accountability and for me it was no way to learn. NAU is smaller, easier to navigate etc.

That said; if someone has their heart set on U of A; I would take the basic classes at PIMA. They are smaller, you learn more, and they transfer right over!

[cowcat]

What would you options be if you include other states? Realistic alternatives to NAU, U of A, and ASU. TIA

[veuvegirl]

No idea You need to start with what your major is, what you want to focus on. Personally I would suggest you look at smaller colleges across the US. There are plenty in the East that are great schools.