As the days grow shorter and darkness falls earlier, prioritizing safety becomes essential for everyone. Stanislaus State offers a free campus shuttle bus service for students, faculty, staff and visitors. The bus was established for the protection of students after dark and can be requested directly through an app.
The UPD (University Police Department) has been providing evening shuttles throughout campus since the early 1990s and utilizes electric shuttle carts that can accommodate up to 15 passengers.
Not only does Stan State offer a free shuttle bus to get you safely to your destination, but they also offer the option to call a safety escort.
Stan State’s website states, “If you fear for your safety at any time, you may request an officer to provide a safety escort by calling (209) 667-3911.”
Many students feel the shuttle bus is a valuable service, though some shared suggestions for improvement.
Diana Herrera (undeclared, Freshman) shared, “I didn’t know about the shuttle bus until recently. I think they need to be more informative about it and let us be aware.”
Herrera suggested more visible promotions, such as posters or regular social media reminders.
Disability Resources Services also offer transportation for students with disabilities. They are located in MSR 210 and can be reached at (209) 667-3159.
The university recommends that students take priority of themselves and their fellow peers during the colder seasons and to stay aware of their surroundings.
By utilizing the university’s free resources students can ensure they arrive safely to and from their classes in the evening.
The shuttle bus was designed specifically for students to take advantage of a safe route while actively walking around campus at night.
Despite its benefits, not all students feel comfortable using the shuttle.
Brookelyn Baba (freshman, Psychology) explained, “To be completely honest, I’m too afraid to sit with and speak to a person alone. I would feel safer if there were more students on the shuttle bus.”
While she hasn’t used the service yet, Brookelyn acknowledged that the shuttle bus is highly convenient, saying, “There are signs all around campus.”
For others, the shuttle bus could provide much-needed reassurance.
Mia Montijo (freshman, Math) said, “I usually try parking close to my night class, but if I ended up with my car in a different parking lot, I would definitely use it. It gets a bit creepy by myself.”
Like Herrera, Montijo felt the university could do more to promote the shuttle, suggesting more flyers or Instagram posts to raise awareness.
Oliver Bonilla (freshman, forensic anthropology) also recognized the value of the service.
“I wish I knew more about how to access the shuttle. Maybe there could be ads or signs at the stops,” Bonilla said.
Though he has never felt unsafe on campus, Oliver agreed that making sure other students feel safe is very important.
There is an app that students can use to access the shuttle. The app is called TripShot and is available to be downloaded on iPhone and Android. Once downloaded, you will be prompted to verify your details. The service name is CSUSTAN. You will then have to select Warrior Login and enter your university name and password. You are all set, enjoy your ride!
