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About Cimba > CIMBA Campuses > Safety Concerns |
Safety Concerns |
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It is not possible for anyone to guarantee personal safety at any time or any location. This is just as true of programs abroad as it is of universities in the United States. With that said, CIMBA takes the safety of students, staff and professors very seriously. The next sections discuss some issues pertaining to being as safe as possible.
Personal Responsibility
The vast majority of students behave properly, have a great time exploring Europe and never have difficulties. Possibly the greatest threat to safety is personal responsibility or more importantly the lack of it. CIMBA cannot monitor students’ personal decisions, choices and activities on a daily basis, especially during personal travel periods. As a consequence, it is difficult to prevent students form engaging in illegal or risky activities. We do provide information about safety, laws, cultural differences and personal responsibility at orientation sessions; however, students sometimes choose to ignore our information. In the event a student is accused of illegal activities, CIMBA cannot represent the interest of the students beyond making sure that the US Embassy is notified and making sure legal representation is available.
Crime
Although crime rates in Europe are both low and non-violent by US standards, program participants are encouraged to be mindful of crime at all times. The most serious crime seems to be theft which is most frequently encountered in heavily traveled tourist areas. During orientation, the CIMBA staff provides tips on how to carry credit cards and cash, hold a purse and find help in the case of an emergency. These types of petty crimes are more annoying than dangerous and in many instances vigilance in watching belongings and paying attention can prevent these crimes. There is no reason to be overly concerned with violent crime that is common in the US. Incidents of rape and armed robbery are very low in Europe, especially when compared to US statistics. Ownership of handguns is strictly regulated and crimes involving them are rare. Students will find that the small towns in Italy, including the locations of both campuses, are exceptionally safe.
Security Measures
CIMBA will follow specified procedures if and when a specific threat is made against US citizens in Europe. As an initial matter, all students are registered with the US Consulate in Milan upon their arrival. CIMBA stays current with any travel advisories that are posted by the US State Department. In the unlikely event of political instability and credible threats against the general population, the Consulate will notify us of the evacuation route and procedures to be followed. For current information, travel advisories or warnings, please contact the US State Department.
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