Whether you're walking around on campus or leaving a building late at night, there are always potential threats to women and to our safety. That is why I decided to make my article about tips that I personally try to follow and that I have thought of in an effort to keep myself aware and safe.

• Buddy System: Sure, you’ve probably heard this tip since you were young, but that's because it's effective. You’re more likely to stay safe if you have a friend or two with you. It’s a rule that both woman and men who are in the Marines, Navy Seals, etc. have to follow when going off base. So it’s a tip that I can assure you you’re not too good for.
• Carry something: Now, I’m not saying you need to go out and get a concealed hand gun license and then a gun. However, it may make you feel a little safer if you have some mace on you, or a small pocket knife to walk with when you happen to forget the buddy system (or just happen to be by yourself) and are alone at night walking to your car.
• Take your key out before exiting a building or home: When you happen to be leaving a party at night or walking home after a long night of studying at the library, it’s a good idea to take your keys out before you begin your walk. Your keys can also double as a weapon if you put them between your knuckles.
• Have a designated place for your keys: It’s not hard for your purse to become a vast wonderland with an endless bottom. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have a pocket designated for your keys and to make a habit of continuously putting your keys there. That way if you forget to grab your keys before walking out to a parking lot by yourself, you're not left fumbling for your keys, leaving you vulnerable.
• Only take essentials when gassing up: When filling your car up with gas, only take the essentials. Your keys, your phone, and your method of paying. When I say take your phone, I don’t mean to browse Instagram; have it in case you need to call the police or use the safetrek app while at the pump.
• Keep your eyes open: When walking around campus or around an area that seems to be sketchy, it’s probably a good idea to keep your eyes up and to stay alert. Rather than scrolling through Instagram or Twitter, be aware of your surroundings
• Trust your gut: If you get that pit-in-the-stomach feeling because something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably for a reason. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to go with them. You’re more than likely feeling a certain way for a reason, so don’t ignore it.
• Lock your car doors: I have plenty of friends who aren’t in the habit of locking their car doors as soon as they get in their car, but it’s something that you should make a habit. As soon as I enter my car I hit the lock button, whether it’s in the middle of the day or late at night. You never know when someone may come up to you and try to open your doors or pull on them.