Spring Break 2025 Safety Recommendations

March 12, 2025

Dear Boilermaker,

Spring Break is just around the corner! As a Purdue University student—whether undergraduate, graduate, or professional—you've been dedicating your time to classes, midterms, projects, research, and studying. Now, it's time for a well-deserved break. Hopefully, this time off will allow you to unwind, relax, and recharge. 

Your health and safety are a top priority, both on campus and wherever your travels may take you during Spring Break. I’m reaching out to share guidance, recommendations, and reminders to help keep you safe. Always be mindful of how your actions could potentially impact you legally and with the University and take a few moments to think about your safety ahead of time. No area, including the Purdue community, is immune to random acts of crime and violence.  We must continue to exercise due diligence in our safety efforts by taking precautions for ourselves and our fellow Boilermakers. A few safety tips to remember:

• If traveling, share your itinerary with someone in advance.
• If you choose to drink, do so responsibly. Stay within your limits. Do not accept drinks from random individuals.  Look out for your friends.
• Stay hydrated. Keep your stomach full. Wear Sunscreen.
• Travel in groups. Always have a buddy. Trust your instincts. Be aware of your surroundings.
• Ensure your accommodation is secure. Do not share door access codes with others. Lock doors and windows, and protect valuables in the hotel safe, if applicable.
• Keep your cell phone charged and your ID on you. Keep a list of emergency contacts.
• If you’ll be near water, practice water safety. Obey posted rules. Swim with a buddy.
• When using rideshare services, confirm the vehicle is yours and the driver’s identity prior to entering.
• Trust your instincts. If you see something say something.
• Make the Call! Call 9-1-1 if you need police, fire, or emergency medical services.

Enjoy your break responsibly, make smart choices, and return to campus refreshed and ready for the remainder of the semester.

Boiler Up!  Hammer Down!  Hail Purdue and each of you!

Dean Katie

Katherine L. Sermersheim, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Vice Provost & Dean of Students

Office of the Dean of Students
Schleman Hall of Student Services (formally Rec) 2nd floor
656 Oval Drive | West Lafayette, IN  47907-2086
Phone: 765.494.1747 | Fax: 765.496.1550
www.purdue.edu/odos