Health and Safety Practices
Our team is committed to ensuring the safety of all students living and studying at the Bernardi campus, and we take a proactive approach to security. Our policies and procedures reflect our commitment to creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
See Policies and Procedures for additional details about the safety and security practices outlined below.
Building Security
The campus is secured by a front gate and building entrances that are locked at all times. Each resident is given a code that opens the gate and main building entrance, as well as a keycard for their room and assigned bathroom.
Staff Coverage
The Campus Director, Thanos, lives in the building. Kitchen and housekeeping staff are also on site every day. Service people (gardeners, maintenance workers, etc.) are always accompanied by Bernardi Campus staff.
Guests and Visitors
Residents have access to a guest calendar that lists all overnight guests. The guests are typically parents or friends of students or St. Thomas alumni.
Travel Safety
Residents must provide the Campus Director with their travel details if they plan on being away overnight. Required information includes names of all students travelling, departure and return date/time and destination.
Health and Safety Tips
When traveling in a highly populated city like Rome, it’s important to protect yourself and your belongings. We ask students to follow these safety and security practices to minimize risk:
- Be on alert for pickpockets when using public transportation.
- Carry only as much cash as you need.
- Don’t take unnecessary risks. Stay in populated, well-lit areas.
- Walk away from trouble (i.e. protest rallies, pub brawls, etc.) and keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings and don’t get distracted.
- Be cautious when meeting new people. Do not share your address, phone number or building gate code.
- Report suspicious activity or unknown individuals “hanging out” outside Bernardi.
- Never run alone. Don’t run at night or in isolated areas.
- Do not wear earphones when travelling. This can obscure audible signals of threats to your safety.
- If you go out at night, go in small groups. Never go alone.
- Italian law requires you to carry your passport at all times. Police officers always have the right to request your identification for any reason.
- Always report suspicious activity and anything crime-related (i.e. petty theft, assault, etc.) to the Bernardi Campus Director. Try to remember suspect information such as direction of travel, vehicle information, approximate age, height, weight, details on hair, clothing, jewelry, scars, and tattoos – anything noticeable.