College is supposed to be a time of self-discovery, newfound independence, and earned maturity. Many young people revel in the freedom from curfews and parents. But college students are little birds leaving the nest, and it can be a dangerous world out there. Campus security is rapidly becoming an issue in schools across the country as rising crime rates shock and dismay.

It Can Happen Anywhere

Even the most beautiful ivy-covered schools harbor a dark side. Sexual assault can happen anywhere, even on the most peaceful of campuses. Campus security is important at any size school in any part of the country. Annie Henley of the University of Virginia learned the value of campus security the hard way.

"I went to the party and we were basically on a date and then it was one of those 'next thing I knew, I woke up to being raped' things," she explained.

Annie's story is all too common. She went to the hospital and also reported the crime to campus security officials. Annie then had to sit just feet away from her rapist at a school judiciary board hearing. "Even thinking about it now makes my chest get tight," she said. "Like this horrible feeling takes over my body."

Henley is not the only victim. A government study reports that less than five percent of attempted and completed rapes are reported to campus security officials. Daniel Carter, who works with students pressing rape charges, says cases like Henley's are far more common than universities admit. "Colleges are doing a lot to help sex assault victims, but they need to do more, and we as a society need to do more," he said.

Students can take their campus security into their own hands. They cannot rely solely on campus security officials to protect them -- self-defense and common sense both plan important roles in campus security.

Steps to Better Campus Security

1) Campus Security Tip #1: Lock Your Doors

Dorms often give residents a comfortable community feeling, making it tempting to leave your door unlocked or study with your door open so people can stick their heads in and say hi. But it's just not safe. You wouldn't leave your front door wide open at home, and you shouldn't leave your door open in a dorm, either.

2) Campus Security Tip #2: Beware of Strangers

Just because someone is on campus, wearing jeans and a university sweatshirt, and maybe even carrying a book bag, it does not mean he is definitely a student. Do not blindly assume that "Hey, he must go here too, I can trust him."

3) Campus Security Tip #3: Be Wary Of Your Classmates

Similarly, just because someone is a fellow student does not automatically make them harmless. Approximately 35 percent of rape victims were casual acquaintances with their rapists. Date rape is a serious problem on college campuses.

4) Campus Security Tip #4: Watch Your Drink

Date rape is indeed common, as is what is known as the "date rape drug." GHB and Rophynol are two common date rape drugs that can be slipped into a drink, impairing your judgment or even rendering you unconscious. So watch your drink. Always hold it in front of you, never put it down, and never accept a drink handed to you by someone else. Give no opportunity for anyone to slip a date rape drug into your drink. If you suspect you have been drugged at a party, find a friend and contact campus security and EMS officials immediately.

5) Campus Security Tip #5: Watch How Much You Drink

Drink responsibly. Your judgment can be impaired even by a seemingly harmless fruit punch. If you think it's so good you "can't even taste the alcohol!" look out, because that drink packs a much, much bigger kick than you would expect.

6) Campus Security Tip #6: Never Walk Alone

You may be stumbling home late from a party, but you should never be alone on a dark and deserted campus. Many universities have campus security escorts, campus security officers who will guide you back to your dorm room safely.

7) Campus Security Tip #7: Beware of The Stacks

Campus libraries are sprawling and cavernous. It's easy to get lost in the stacks and unfortunately, perverts have been known to hide there and assault unsuspecting students. Remain conscious of those around you. If you are in a study room, lock the door. And if you see any suspicious characters or activity, report it to campus security officials at once.

College is an exciting time, a chance to spread your wings and find out who you really are and be what you want to be. But please always be cautious, and take campus security seriously even when you are having fun. College can be the best time of your life. Enjoy it wisely.