University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Your student’s success is of the utmost importance to us and we look forward to working in partnership with you.  During the academic year, we support our students with resources and information, but you can play an important role before then by having an honest conversation about their lives at UW-Milwaukee, including areas of involvement, health, safety, and drug and alcohol use. 

One of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of college is the opportunity to get involved in student activities and organizations.  There is no better way for students to meet new people who share their interest and to also have some fun.  Check out the UWM Student Activities web site  for more information.

College success requires taking care of mind, body, and spirit.  Encourage your student to make healthy choices and to live a balanced life.  Be sure to sit down with your student and explain his/her health insurance coverage. Students typically have little or no interest in or knowledge of their college’s Health Center prior to their arrival on campus, unless you review the services with them. So sit down together and visit the UWM Norris Health Center web site for more information.

Some parents are under the impression that college campuses are safe havens from the dangers of the outside world, but despite all reasonable efforts to maintain a safe environment, crime can occur in residences halls and elsewhere on campuses and UWM is no different.  Students, however, can drastically reduce their chances of being victimized by crime by exercising common sense and by avoiding or reducing their intake of alcohol, and participation in risky behavior.  Studies reveal that 80% of campus crime is student on student, and alcohol is involved in 90% of college crime.  UWM has a number of safety initiatives, outlined at www.uwm.edu/safety.

We remain concerned about high-risk drinking among our students, especially at the beginning of the fall semester.  The negative effects of such behavior range from academic difficulties to long-term health risks.  Students who drink excessively are more likely to become victims of violent crime and sexual assault.  We ask that you discuss the dangers of high-risk drinking with your student and continue these discussions throughout his or her college experience.

UWM is located in a residential area with many families, older adults, and working men and women who deserve a good neighborhood environment.  Disruptive behavior in the neighborhoods surrounding campus is not tolerated.  Students can receive citations from the Milwaukee Police Department as well as face campus discipline for serious off-campus misconduct due to newly revised UW-System regulations.  Please encourage your student to respect all and maintain the high quality of life in the neighborhoods surrounding the campus.