As Halloween seems to be creeping up, Seton Hall students are preparing for their weekend of festivities. With the numerous safety issues that have been occurring recently off campus, some students are deciding their plans consciously.
"It has definitely influenced my decision, not only for Halloween but all weekends," Tiffany Mongiardini-Batista said, "I may attend some close house parties, but I will probably just stay on campus.Watching scary movies with my roommates and eating s'mores seems like a fun, free-from-danger idea."
After taking a poll, 7 out of 10 students chose to stay on campus for Halloween.
One event being held on campus is the Halloween Carnival of Fun held by DOVE starting at 6 p.m. on Oct. 29 in the University Center main lounge.
Many Halloween themed games will be available to play and light refreshments will be served.
The Student Activities Board is also hosting a Monster's Ball at 8:30 p.m. in the University Center main lounge on Oct. 28. Students can go dressed in costume and the party will continue until 1 a.m.
After looking over the event posted on Facebook, public relations major, Charles Hurley decided to attend the Monster's Ball to eliminate any safety worries for a stress-free Halloween.
Junior Jacalyn Estrada will be going to Cryan's for Halloween and will be taking a lot of precautionary measures to stay safe.
"One of my friends is going to be the designated driver, so not only are none of us drinking and driving, but we also don't have to worry about walking in the dark," Estrada said. "I also decided that I'm not going to bring my purse along because I am really scared about being mugged. Instead, I am just bringing the bare essentials like a cell phone and some cash and putting them in my pockets."
Sophomore Melissa Novo plans to leave campus and attend a Halloween and birthday party for her suitemate.
"Since it is at my friend's house in South Orange and only close friends are invited, I'm not that worried about safety, but it will still be in the back of my mind," Novo said.
Some students revealed during the polling that they would like Seton Hall to hold some sort of seminar to provide students with safety tips.
"Seton Hall has definitely made an effort to reach out to students in this time of concern and I think a seminar would be perfect for us for that extra step to feel secure," Mongiardini-Batista said.
Novo takes precaution when heading off campus by carrying a flashlight and a cell phone at all times, just in case of emergency.
"I definitely think students should travel in groups and stay on main roads that are well lit," senior Ryan Hudes said.
Students have been advised to carry flashlights and their cell phones by safety authorities.
Seton Hall students seem to be carefully choosing Halloween plans whether it be on or off campus.
Kimberly Bolognini can be reached at kimberly.bolognini@student.shu.edu.
