High Point's High Crime Rates: Are Students Safe?

High Point's High Crime Rates: Are Students Safe?

A windshield cracked in half, a rear view mirror ripped off, items from the glove compartment strewn all around the passenger's side: this is the state in which one High Point University student found her car after returning to campus the Sunday following Halloween. Worse yet, she found that her $400 ipod had also been stolen.

The individual, Morgan Gunn, immediately called security, who informed her that six or seven other cars had also been broken into in the lower-Blessing lot and recommended that she file a report with the High Point Police Department.

Unfortunately, this incident was not an isolated one. Similar incidents of larceny and vandalism occur frequently in the city of High Point, and a few have even occurred on Campus.

Crime in High Point

According to High Point crime statistics from a 2003 FBI report, crime in High Point is either equal to or above the national average in every category (i.e. Murder, Burglary, Robbery). In addition, High Point's Violent Crime Rate is 1.43 times the national average and its Property Crime Rate is 1.46 times the national average.

More alarming still is the number of crimes that have occurred within close proximity to the HPU campus. According to the High Point Police Department's Community Crime Map, there have been a number of crimes reported within a mile radius of campus in just the past 31 days (month). The number of reported crimes, according to this map, comes to a total of 88, including: 27 counts of larceny, 21 counts of burglary, 12 drug counts, 11 counts of vandalism, 9 counts of assault and more.

So, with such a high crime rate in the city of High Point, with many incidents occurring just within a mile of campus, the question arises: are High Point University students safe?

Is the HPU Campus Safe?

The car break-in incident in the lower-Blessing lot might seem to suggest that campus is not safe. And a more recent incident, in which a couple of residents, or "townies," allegedly forced their way into an on-campus house and stole a phone, might seem to confirm this.

But according to the Head of Campus Security, Jeffrey Karpovich, it is still unclear whether force was actually used in this case and it is still under investigation.

Furthermore, it seems possible that students may actually be more responsible for criminal activity on campus than High Point residents.

For instance, in an interview with Mr. Karpovich, he said that students were the ones responsible for one of the more recent crime-related incidents on campus, a first-degree burglary. "Which sounds pretty serious," he said, but then he went on to explain that it was just a couple of kids, "probably intoxicated," going into some one's room after dark.

Mr. Karpovich also mentioned that there have been a couple of recent thefts of property and vandalism but thinks it was "students stealing from students".

When Morgan, whose car was broken into and ipod stolen, was asked whether she thought "townies" or students were responsible, she said, "High Point residents...I'd like to think that no student would be that malicious."

What's Being Done?

Regardless, however, of who is responsible for on-campus crime, the real issue is what's being done about it. Are these matters being dealt with, or allowed to continue?

When Head of Security, Mr. Karpovich, was asked what measures were being taken to make campus safer, his response was, "How long have you got?" He says that over 125 documented improvements have been made since he came to HPU, which was about 6 months ago. Some of these improvements include: tripling the number of uniformed staff, giving transportation duties to other personnel, rather than officers, creating patrol sectors, and making minimum requirements for security officers prior to hiring, such as physical and psychological examinations, and training.

Links:

http://www.highpoint.edu/campuslife/publicsafety/

http://www.campuschronicle.org/

http://www.high-point.net/police/

5 Safety Tips
From the Head of Campus Security
Jeffrey Karpovich

1. Look out for yourself: "Safety is your responsibility"
2. Keep your valuables out of sight: "Leave it for the sky, kiss it goodbye"
3. Be aware of your surroundings: "From inside to outside: side by side"
4. "If you see something [suspicious], say something"
5. Have security and the police on speed dial

Safety Tips Video:

Immigrant Trials in the Triad

Immigrant Trials in the Triad

By: Elizabeth Boyd

For Fillippe, a fifth grader of High Point, N.C., English is not his native language. At age 10, Fillippe was placed in the fifth grade based on his age and due to the "No Child Left Behind Policy". Fillippe spends more hours on homework every night then his classmates, just to stay caught up with the rest of the class.

Fillippe's family is from Mexico and immigrated to the United States to experience a different culture and environment. Many immigrates travel to the United States for freedom, education and employment. Since Fillippe's family does not speak fluent English and cannot help him with homework, Fillippe struggles in school.


Language Barrier Solutions
To succeed in education, in the United States, fluent English is necessary. Like Fillippe, his lack of knowledge of the English language is interfering with his studies. Simple words like, "the", "car", and "book", are difficult for Fillippe to sound out and read.

Tonya McClain, a sophomore of High Point University, volunteers with the Learning Together Program at Macedonia Family Resource Center in High Point, N.C.

The program offers English education to immigrant families across the Triad. It was established when members of a local church, Christ United Methodist Church, walked through immigrant communities asking how they could help their transition to the United States.

Communicating with immigrants from Mexico and various countries from Africa, the church members found it difficult to relate. Once establishing the need for English education, the church created the Learning Together Program.

The afternoon program meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 5pm-8pm. While volunteers watch children and assist with homework, professionals teach immigrant mothers and grandmothers English, hygiene, and other basic living information. From learning about dental hygiene to the basics of "time-out" time, the mothers and grandmothers are able to raise their families well within the American society.


Facing Reality
As immigrants enter the country, their biggest concern is not necessarily the language obstacle, but the living adjustments. Families face difficulties adjusting to the fast pace of an American lifestyle. The Learning Together Program offers educational structure in a caring environment. Within the setting, there are translators that help the mothers and grandmothers.

The majority of the parents work in similar factory-type businesses, where education is not required, only common knowledge. Since math is a universal language, the job requires them to punch in numbers in a computer and the knowledge of the English language is not necessary.


Rewarding Experiences
Andy Russell, sophomore of High Point University, experienced volunteering at Macedonia one time and claimed it was an "eye opening experience."

"I spent three hour working with Fillippe on his reading homework and felt it was one of the most rewarding experiences." As other children played games, Russell sat with Fillippe and tried to make learning fun. "We had to sound out every word, but knowing I made an impact in his life meant a lot to me" says Russell.

Macedonia Family Resource Center

"To Empower ALL People by Enriching their Spiritual, Social and Family lives, in God's Love."

Macedonia Family Resource Center was established to create a safe place for the community and to reduce the crime and violence rates.

The Wesley Memorial Methodist Church of High Point, contributed 1.5 million dollars for the center. United Way of Greater High Point gave money of $500,000 toward the construction also.

In August of 2003, Macedonia opened to the public.




Related Materials:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Macedonia Family Resource Center

HPU SUGGESTS YOU GO WORLDWIDE

High Point Suggests You Go Worldwide
By Dan Suseck

High Point University is growing. This is evident by all the loud and constant construction on campus. Given this why would anyone want to leave this little slice of heaven?

The answer, to see the world. High Point University's elaborate study abroad program is growing just as fast as its campus. Australia, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, and Germany the possibilities are endless.

HPU Study Abroad Program


High Point University, has a very elaborate study abroad program. HPU believes in the creating a world-wide opportunity for their students. Most students want to take advantage of this great experience while they are young. What better time to experience the world than, while in college.

High Point prides itself on being a very diverse school. From its professors and administration down its student body. Diversity is a common theme. Abroad programs give students a chance to grow culturally and embrace other cultures.

Students can go abroad as early as the summer after their freshman year. This gives the abroad groups a very unique range of ages. Jeff Gibbons, junior at HP, went to Australia last year. He had this to say, "The group of students I went with, I did not that well but through the trip I gained valuable friendships."

Oh The Places You Can Go

The following is a list of countries that is offered through High Point University study abroad program:

• England


• Italy


• Scotland


• Ecuador


• France


• Germany


• Mexico


• Spain
  

Two Friends, Two very Different Choices

William Shill and Jeffrey Gibbons, are close friends. Will a sophomore at HP and Jeff a junior. They both decided that they wanted to experience the study abroad program. The problem was they wanted to go to different parts of the world. Will to Ireland and Jeff to Australia.

"We thought that it was imperative for both of us follow our dreams. I had been wanting to go to Ireland, for quite some time, I have heritage there." Will said.

Gibbons said, "I had always imagined that Will and I would have gone to the same place, but we thought that this might be fun too. More importantly I was not going to Ireland, that's for sure. I wanted the beach and the babes."

Both students left about the same time. Summer of 2008, they set off apart but excited. They would keep in close contact with each other via e-mail. After three months they came back, safe and sound and with different experiences.

Recommendations

Studying abroad just like anything else has it positive and negative results. Jeff came back smiling from ear to ear. William not so much.

"The time I had in Ireland was information, but not always a blast." He continues, "Looking back I would have much rather worked over the summer and made money for school. It just was not what I expected. I would recommend long and hard about studying abroad."

"GO!" That's all Jeff Gibbons had to say about his experience in Australia. He said that he had never had more fun that summer. The time spent overseas made him a better person and overall happier.

"I love it there, I did miss home at some points, but studying abroad is just something you have to do." When asked about Will's experience in Ireland, Jeff had 4 simple words: "I told you so."

External Links:

http://www.studyabroadfunding.org/?WT.srch=1&gclid=CK7BlPb4wJcCFR8hnAodulnvSg

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/professors-guide/2008/12/10/the-top-10-myths-about-study-abroad.html

HPU Welcomes International Students

HPU Welcomes International Students

by: Charisse Duncan

What would you do if you moved to a foreign country to attend school? How would you meet friends? Would you be able to speak the language? Would you enjoy the food?

At High Point University, foreign students bring more diversity to the campus with interesting cultures as well as a sense of belonging for everyone.


International Promenade




The International Promenade is a popular attraction at High Point University. Students walk to class, talk to friends, or grab a snack at the kiosks.

There are several sights and sounds on the Promenade such as jazz or classical music playing over the speakers, the beautiful water fountains, and statues of prominent individuals like Martin Luther King Jr. and Aristotle.

The various flags displayed throughout the light poles makes the Promenade most appealing. There are approximately 50 flags which represent a different country for the entire HPU population. Jamie Hendrix, a junior at HPU, enjoys walking the Promenade on a daily basis. "I'm happy whenever I see the North Carolina flag as well as the one from Japan," says Jamie. "I'm half Japanese, so I feel like my ethnicity is well represented."


HPU International Students (Class of 2012)

International students from 11 countries comprise 2% of the class; the 11 countries represented are:

• Belgium
• Canada
• China
• Denmark
• India
• Japan
• Pakistan
• Peru
• Taiwan
• Russia
• Trinidad and Tobago
  

Life As An International Student

It is difficult attending a school when you're from a different state, but it is more difficult when you're from another country. Takashi Torigoe, a junior at HPU, knows how difficult it can be to adjust to a foreign country. Takashi, who hails from Hamamatsu, Japan, came to High Point University in 2006 as a freshman.

Although it was difficult at first, Takashi began to get involved in extracurricular activities such as playing soccer and becoming part of the International Club. Takashi expresses his feelings about the positive experiences he's had in America. "I like it here," Takashi says. "I still have to get use to the food."

Just like most international students, Takashi does not get to home for holiday breaks, since they are usually too short and do not allow enough time to travel half way around the world. Instead he stays with his Japanese friends, who also attend HPU, on campus.

Takashi also has thought about having a future in America after he graduates from college. As a business major, he would like to travel America for the perfect job. "I'm scared because the economy is not good here," says Takashi. "I hope it will get better."


HPU Goes International!



The International Club is one of the most unique clubs at High Point University because it aims to "promote a global and international understanding." Membership is open to international students as well as American students. Every two weeks, the club meets to discuss different international cultures. The club is best known for their International Fair and Fashion Show as well as dinners and trips.



International Club Officers of Fall 2008

Dr. Barbara Mascali (Germany) Faculty adviser
Dr. Jean-François Llorens (France) Faculty adviser
President - Manar Faraj
Vice President - Jimmy Yarbough
Treasurer / SGA Rep. - Nick Benton
Secretary - Veronica Houghton
Backup SGA - Shanta Smith
Historian - Kaitlin Evans
Historian - Sally Fowler
Historian - Roger Best



The International Club shows the importance of celebrating other cultures. Roger Best, a historian for the club agrees that the club is great for the campus. "I think people, especially Americans, should know about other cultures," Roger says. "It develops a greater appreciation for everyone."


Related Articles:

International Students-EducationUSA

International Recipes

Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder at HPU

Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder at HPU
By: Liz Welborn

Waiting. Anticipating. Waiting. Anticipating that phone call. For some people this is how they describe their relationship with their significant other that lives miles away.


Long distance relationships are hard enough without the element of stress that college brings, so how exactly do fellow students of High Point University conquer the battle of distance while maintaining a healthy relationship with their partner?



Love Overseas


Chelsea Wocoski, a junior at HPU, never thought that she would be dating a soldier in Iraq. When she started dating Trevor Hunter it was before he enlisted into the Army in April 2007. Hunter was just originally sent to Alaska where, upon arrival, he was informed that he would be going to Iraq that June of 2007.


The hardest thing for Wocoski is not hearing from Hunter for days. When first arriving in Iraq Hunter was stationed in Tal A’Far, a town near the Turkish border that had plenty of internet and phone access. Wocoski would receive a phone call from Hunter almost every day.


That all changed when Hunter was suddenly moved to the less stabilized Iraqi town of KirKuk. Now, because of less phone and internet connections, Wocoski is lucky if she gets a phone call weekly from Hunter. “Now when Trevor calls you can hear how much he misses home in his voice, and it makes me cry”, Wocoski says.


The scariest thing about dating someone in Iraq is that “you never know what is going on over there or if he is hurt”, Wocoski says. The one thing that helps Wocoski during the lonely times is the military support group that HPU supports. This support group is made up of students involved with soldiers in the war.

The support group does activities that help each other cope with the loneliness and the anxiousness. They also do activities for the soldiers, for example they are making care packages to send to the soldiers in the Middle East for Christmas.

Wocoski is also involved with an online military support group: Militarysos.com. This website is dedicated to the loved ones of soldiers. They send helpful messages and lend a shoulder to cry on when the worry gets to be too much.



Love Between States


When Kim Baumgartner, a senior at HPU, decided to go to HPU she had broken up with her boyfriend of three years. By the time she was accepted, they were back together and have been ever since. Her boyfriend, Matt Davidson, was angry that she chose a college so far away from their home state of New Jersey. “He got very angry with me, he could not understand why I wanted to go so far away from him”, Baumgartner says.


At the time, Baumgartner wanted a new start in a new state. However, now that Matt and she are back together she sometimes wishes she had chosen a closer college. Even though she talks to Davidson three to five times a day via telephone, she misses the “comfort that seeing him brings me,” Baumgartner says.


Although it is difficult at times, Baumgartner says the distance has caused their relationship to strengthen. “Now that we have been apart for over a year, we know that our relationship can pretty much last through just about anything”, Baumgartner says.


When Baumgartner is having a lonely day she relies on her good friends to get her mind off of being away from Davidson. “People here at HPU surround me with positive reinforcement that always encourages me,” confides Baumgartner.







Statistics on Long Distance Relationships:
According to Education Portal

• Couples live an average of 125 miles apart, and visit each other 1.5 times per month.
• Phone calls are made every 2.7 days; the average call lasts 30 minutes.
• Letters (not counting emails) are exchanged 3 times per month.
• Most couples expect to be separated an average of 14 months.

How to Make It Work

According to a recent study done by Southeastern University, over 40 percent of undergraduates in a long distance relationship believed in the statement “out of sight and out of mind” when it came to how they felt about their spouse that was far away.

So how do you make a long distance relationship work with these statistics?

Distance is what you make of it, if the person is worth it, then it is worth the loneliness of a long distance relationship agrees both Wocoski and Baumgartner. One motto that Wocoski lives by is “don’t take anything for granted…you never know when something is going to happen.”

In order for a long distance relationship to work Baumgartner says that you need to know that your partner is trustworthy and willing to communicate on a daily basis with you. Without the basic foundation of trust and honesty the long distance relationship will most likely not last.

Baumgartner emphasizes that a relationship in its stages is always the hardest when in a long distance relationship. However both Baumgartner and Wocoski agree that with distance, their love has grown into something beautiful.







Military Significant Others and Spouse Support was founded in January of 2004, and was created by a wife of a solder. The website is a place where solder’s significant others can communicate through message boards, chat rooms, e-mails, and blogs.

The website used to be called NavySOS, mainly for Navy significant others. However due to several requests, in 2006 the website converted so that it is now for all branches of the military and their spouses.

The motto of MilitarySOS is to “provide a comfortable, positive environment for military spouses and significant others to not only receive support, but to also vent, celebrate and come together in a place where everyone has something in common - a Military Significant Other .”

In order to become a member of MilitarySOS there is a yearly fee of $20 or a monthly installment plan of $2.50.



Related Articles:

• How to have a long distance relationship
• College Dating Tips
  

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