While students concentrate on settling into their new homes on and off campus, other people around the University may have a different agenda.
Move-in time leaves a perfect opportunity for thieves to also move in.
Leo Heatley, Department of Public Safety director, said students must take precautions to avoid the onset of unexpected crime.
Students should not leave valuable belongings unattended, even if only for a few minutes, Heatley said.
"Every year that I can remember, we've had things stolen off the sidewalk," Heatley said.
Heatley also stressed the importance of always locking doors and not leaving valuables in view of potential thieves. If something is stolen, however, it is best to contact DPS or the Ann Arbor Police Department as soon as possible.
"It comes down to a partnership - them working with us," he said.
DPS also loans scribing devices to students so they can identify valuable belongings, including stereos, computers and televisions. Heatley said that if a student's name is inscribed, DPS's chance of returning the item increases.
Heatley said students living on campus should contact DPS immediately if a theft occurrs. Students who live off campus should report the crime to the AAPD.
LSA first-year student Stephanie McGuire said she doesn't worry too much about the safety of her belongings.
"I kind of worry about my computer," McGuire said. "That's it, and my bike outside."
Nonetheless, McGuire said she does take proper precautions by locking her computer when she leaves the room, as well as locking her door when she or her roommate are not home.
WARREN ZINN/Daily
Heather Brenner, a first-year LSA student from Portage, helps her father Dave Brenner install a loft in her Markley room. In the background, her brother, Brian Brenner, watches. About 200 more students than last fall are moving into residence halls on campus this semester.