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While students who live off campus sacrifice the convenience of security guards, many say having their own apartment or house is worth safety concerns.

Staying safe while living off campus requires a few more precautions than simply swiping a PennCard, but students are willing to make the effort in exchange for the freedom of living outside the college houses.

Engineering sophomore Asli Sahin said that though she is concerned about her safety, she still prefers to live in the comfort of her own apartment. Sahin, who lived in King's Court/English House during her freshman year, is currently residing in Hamilton Court at 37th and Chestnut streets.

"I am a little scared because we have no security guards, like in the dorms. We have a main lock, but anyone can open the door if they try to force it open," Sahin said.

But she still continues to live off campus because living in a dorm "is not as convenient as having your own apartment. You feel like you are staying in school, not at home."

Linda Coughlin, a property manager at Apartments at Penn Inc. added that the recent crimes around campus have not affected the number of people looking for off-campus housing. "We've been very busy, and we've found a lot of leases. I haven't noticed any decline."

The University's Division of Public Safety works with landlords around University City to improve security conditions for students living off campus.

The division recently completed a street-lighting project on Pine Street, between 40th and 43rd streets. Officials are currently working to expand the initiative to surrounding streets as well.

According to Coughlin, many students who want to live off campus choose the area around 40th and Pine streets. "This is the most desired area ... but the costs are much higher too."

Public Safety encourages students to use University services by calling 898-WALK and 898-RIDE for escorts.

The Division of Public Safety also provides students and groups with security presentations upon their request through the Special Services Department.

Officials suggest that before signing a lease, students talk to their landlords about security concerns, such as lighting, locks, security systems and fire safety.

Coughlin added that, in terms of safety, it may not matter whether a student chooses to live on or off campus. "In the end, everyone needs to [be] cautious and vigilant. ... And make sure you always lock your doors behind [you]."

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