The Minaret recently covered a story on three students from the University of Tampa who were robbed at gunpoint on the 18th of September. The reaction of students and faculty was hardly noticeable after the occurrence of this crime. Was this crime just another story that was destined to be forgotten about without any remorse? I like to think that the history of violent crimes on and around our campus would suggest otherwise.
How is something like this avoided? Is there enough being done to ensure the safety of our students and the integrity of our University? If it was to be my decision on creating a safer environment for our students, I believe there would be much work to do.
North Boulevard in recent years has become a hotspot for criminal activity. Unfortunately, it is also a party destination for some UT students. Campus property stretches to the corner of Cass St and N Boulevard, which is only a short distance from a bar located on Cass St that seems to be popular with UT students. It is obvious that this portion of campus is in need of increased security.
While there have been efforts to strengthen the security around campus, crime is still an issue for UT. There doesn’t seem to be a clear cut plan to help keep this part of campus more secure. UT security patrols campus on a daily basis and there is a shuttle system for students to use around campus, however these are only effecting people already on campus. It is critical to the safety of our students that we implement broader security enforcement. While it may not be required for the University to provide security in an off campus location, action can still be taken to reduce the number incidents that often occur on our doorstep. It would not be out of the question to insert video surveillance to parts of campus that are in high risk. At the very least, this could help provide knowledge of how crimes are being committed and a method to prevent them.
The family and friends of former UT cross country standout Ryan McCall might know how to explain the seriousness of this problem. On August 19th, 2009, McCall was robbed at gunpoint and fatally shot at the base of the same bridge where the robbery on September 18th occurred. The seriousness of this heinous crime has not been forgotten for those that knew McCall.
The college experience is something that should be rewarding and unique for every student. Several students from around the world chose UT because of its academic excellence and tradition. However, upon arrival, they are often oblivious to the area and often do not know the layout of the environment surrounding UT.
According to the dean of students, after the robbery, a global message was sent out to all students that intended to provide safety reminders for off campus activity. However, The Minaret article then says that all students who were interviewed about the e-mail, did not recall receiving the message.
To the school board and head of UT campus security: I urge you to provide a safer environment as well as a knowledgeable foundation for the students at UT. Knowing is half the battle.
- A concerned Student.
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Have to say I agree with UT Prof. on this one. If you are old enough to go off to college on your own, you are old enough to take care of yourself. Quit blaming everyone else. Maybe they SHOULD provide more support or change some things, but they don’t have to. If they don’t, leave the school or go back home to mommy and daddy. Your only other option is to grow up and handle your own affairs.
Take a freakin cab!!! They are easy to call and can help keep you safe. Hire an off-duty deputy or police officer to follow you around!! This is a more expensive option, but at least you have someone watching you. I would say get a gun and carry it concealed, legally, but it would be illegal to carry on campus and in the bar so that won’t work.
Instead of complaining, do something. The school is not your parents, in spite of how much they told you they would take care of you. Maybe I am just jaded because I am about 10 years older than most students here, and am a certified bad-as@, but I think I am on the right track. Maybe we need security with sniper rifles posted on the top of the parking garages providing overwatch for the students walking around??? Could work, but probably wouldn’t fly. Again, until then, learn to CYA.
Dear Concerned Student:
You obviously did not pay attention during Orientation, in your Gateways class or in your residence hall briefings. If you did, you would have the information you are seeking. It is NOT the job of campus security to provide for your safety when you venture OFF campus into unsafe areas of the city. YOU are responsible for your actions and probably should not be going to bars in the first place, but I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt that you are, in fact, of legal drinking age. Please stop complaining that everyone is supposed to be responsible for you and, as an adult. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY for your OWN actions. This just might be the single most important thing you learn in college!