Attending an Event Alone: 7 Safety Tips

By Kailey Walters on July 4, 2019

Chances are that you’re pretty busy as a college student. That means you likely have a number of responsibilities to attend to throughout the week. With all the errands you have to run, places you have to go to, and events you need to show up at, it’s important to be safe while also enjoying yourself.

Depending on the type of event you’re attending, you’ll need to have a certain mindset. Going to a professional networking event on campus will require a different approach than showing up at a party at someone’s house off campus, for example. Generally, however, it’s essential that you always keep at least a few main safety tips in the back of your mind.

via Pixabay

1. Do your research.

Before you head off to the event, take the time and effort to figure out what it’s about. Almost nothing is more embarrassing than showing up and having no idea what you’re there for, so make sure you do your homework. That might involve sitting down at your computer and looking at multiple websites to get a feel for what’s being offered at the event, or even talking to people who might have some sort of connection to the event in order to get information or advice from them.

2. Prep yourself to feel confident.

No matter what kind of event you’re attending, you want to prepare yourself as best as possible beforehand so that you go in feeling confident. Part of that process involves learning about the event, as mentioned previously, and taking steps to make sure you conduct yourself appropriately during the event. For example, that could mean figuring out how to dress (e.g. business casual versus business formal) and thinking about what you might say to others, whether you’ll be networking or simply holding casual conversation. Going into the event confident and self-assured can help to clear away any lingering doubts you may have, which can help you feel safer.

3. Take advantage of whatever connections you might have.

Even if you don’t have many strong connections with the people at the event, chances are that you’ll have at least some weak ties with people there. Maybe your brother is friends with a few people who will be at a networking event, or you’re acquainted with a group of people who will be at a party. If you feel comfortable and it is appropriate to do so, take the opportunity to solidify those relationships. That way, you might not be as alone as you think while attending the event, which can help you feel safer during your time there.

via Pixabay

4. Show interest in talking to others.

Stemming from the previous point, it’s a good idea to socialize and talk to other people around you. Showing interest in conversing with others can not only help you feel less lonely and awkward during the event, but it can also help you to form connections that may last after the event is over.

5. Have your phone on you.

If you want to feel safe during the event, make sure you have your phone with you at all times. Of course, you don’t want to be glued to your phone the entire time, but having it on your person can alleviate any fears you may have about things like getting a ride home, calling a friend when you need help, etc. You certainly don’t want to find yourself in a tight situation without a phone to call for help, so be cautious!

6. Be familiar with the venue and identify all exits.

Another important thing to do is to familiarize yourself with the venue. Upon entering, look around and check the space so you have a visual in your mind. Take note of where the main exits are, just in case something happens (such as a fire) and you and everyone else needs to make a quick escape. While this information hopefully won’t be necessary during your time at the event, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Being familiar with the event space and the location of the exits can help you feel a lot more secure in case something does happen to go wrong.

7. Be aware of your surroundings.

In keeping with the previous point, be aware of everything around you. Notice the people around you, what they’re doing, if anything suspicious is going on, etc. Being alert and knowing what’s happening in your vicinity is important for helping you feel safe and in control.

No matter where you go or what you’re doing, always remember that your own safety comes first. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be able to have a safe and fun time!

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