Safety is a concern in all areas of campus, but recent events in Kissam Quadrangle have attracted even more attention to the issue.

Often said to be far removed from the rest of campus, Kissam's location at the corner of 21st and West End Avenues places it along a high traffic area of the off-campus Nashville community.

"I feel that the location of the dorms at Kissam really put them at risk being so close to the street, as compared with Branscomb or even The Commons," said sophomore Jenn Bauman, who had her cell phone stolen from her room after leaving it unlocked for just a few minutes.

"From a common sense standpoint, it makes sense (that there is more crime in Kissam). Kissam is the place where it is quickest to get on and off our campus," said Maj. Cathy Ryan of the Vanderbilt University Police Department.

Ryan said awareness of students' surroundings is extremely important, especially because Vanderbilt is located in the middle of a large city. She urged students to take precautions such as locking the door when leaving a room and walking with a group of people, as these practices are essential in protecting oneself and one's property. She also said she does not suggest using chain locks for bicycles since they are easy to cut.

While security guards posted at the entrances of Branscomb Quadrangle and Carmichael Towers may deter unwelcome guests from coming inside, five of the six buildings in Kissam do not have such protection. Ryan said students should be aware that most intruders who do gain entrance into the residence halls get in by walking in with a group of students or feigning a lost card.

Students have also encountered safety issues outside of their buildings.

On her way to Greek Row for Panhellenic recruitment at the beginning of the semester, sophomore resident of Kissam Hall Zoe Sawka said she encountered a man walking toward her as she walked along West End Avenue in between Kissam and Towers.

"He look(ed) really sketchy," said Sawka. "All of a sudden he ... body slammed me (against the fence)."

Sawka said a group of male students turned around when she screamed, which seemed to scare the offender away. She said she now protects herself by cutting through campus instead of walking on West End Avenue and always walks with other people.

Ryan emphasized using the BlueLight system if possible during these situations. There are 134 BlueLights located throughout Vanderbilt parking garages and main campus. The VUPD Web site is currently under construction but should have a map of their placement available soon.

To further help students remain safe, Kissam is offering a six-week rape aggression defense class for female residents in the quad. More information on the class can be found at the VUPD Web site, http://www.police.vanderbilt.edu/radsys.htm.