The head of Dillard University Security, Andre Menzies, introduces himself to the students of the New York Times Student Journalism Institute, Sunday, May 17, 2009, in New Orleans, at the Kearny Dining Hall. (Ray Tyler/The New York Times Student Journalism Institute)

My big take-away from the first day of The New York Times Student Journalism Institute: I can enjoy the Big Easy without becoming an easy target.

With so many news stories about the murders, assaults and other crimes that plague New Orleans, I admit that I was a bit hesitant about coming here for the Institute. Because of my Midwestern upbringing in Cincinnati and lack of a Southern accent, I was sure I’d stick out, almost as if I were holding a sign that read: “Come get me. I’m clearly not from here.” In the weeks leading up to my arrival, I often imagined my demise in New Orleans becoming a front-page story.

But it turns out tourists aren’t always the No. 1 target. In fact, tourism is one of the strongest industries in the city, so many of the tourist attractions are relatively safe. The outlying neighborhoods, however, can be a different story.

Here are some simple but important guidelines that the Dillard University police chief and other New Orleans natives shared with out-of-towners at the Institute:

• Always travel in pairs at the minimum; remember there’s always strength in numbers, the more the better
• While the French Quarters and other tourist attractions are booming, there are in fact many areas in New Orleans that are yet to be rebuilt following Hurricane Katrina. Steer clear of uninhabited areas, many of which still have no working street lights or repaired street signs.
• Avoid going out after dark. But if you must, don’t venture out alone.
• Don’t get caught up in the party atmosphere of the city. New Orleans can be a fun place but stay alert and aware of your surroundings.