Safety is always a top priority at Northwestern. This year, the University has developed campus safety options available right at the fingertips of Northwestern community members. The NUhelp App is a brand new resource that helps you navigate safety and wellness at Northwestern. The app, available on iOS 7+ iPhones and Android 4.4.+ KitKat phones, is designed to be easy to use even during emergencies.
Launched two years ago, the NUhelp website was created by the Dean of Students Office, with support from Associated Student Government, to give community members quick access to campus resources and services. The new NUhelp app, launched in September, seeks to build on the original website, where users can find contact info for various campus resources like Safe Ride, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and 24/7 Neighborhood Desks with ease.
The NUhelp App also introduces SafeWalk, a feature through which users can set an alert that will notify a friend if they do not reach their destination in a certain amount of time. The selected contact is encouraged to check in on the friend if this occurs or call NUPD in case of emergency. The goal of this feature is for students to help keep each other safe while commuting between locations. (Watch an informational video on the SafeWalk feature.)
The NUhelp App’s interactive map feature also gives users walking estimates between campus buildings or in the neighborhoods adjacent to the Evanston campus (and even off-campus favorites like Edzo’s Burger Shop and Whole Foods Market). A user could even utilize the app to calculate if it’s possible to get to Andy’s Frozen Custard within 10 minutes and make it back to campus in time for class.
Students can also quickly report concerns to the University if they notice any behavioral issues regarding other Northwestern students. For reports regarding sexual misconduct, the app gives additional directions on how to file a report as well as resources for sexual assault victims.
The NUhelp website is still available to the Northwestern community, and the app transfers the resources from users’ desktops straight to their phones. These platforms will complement each other in the continuing effort to keep students safe and supported at Northwestern.
To download the NUhelp app, go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.