Still, any student might have the thought of a possible threat,  such as the attacks at the Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois campuses, in the back of their mind. In mid-Missouri, university officials say they're doing everything they can to make sure students are safe in the event of an emergency.

"I think there's a level of assurity that we've taken the proper steps to make sure we're in the best position possible in the event that something like that would occur here," explained Dan Haslag, Westminster College.

Currently Central Methodist University, The University of Missouri, and Westminster College all have text messaging alert systems. Both Lincoln University and Columbia College say they have other warning systems in place and are exploring the idea of text messaging as well. Students agree that the phone is probably the best way to reach them.

"Just send me a text message or a mass phone call would probably work pretty well," said Chris Mazzola, Columbia College student.

But much of the battle to inform is being lost due to students not taking the time to register their cell phone numbers.

"Right now we've got about a third of our campus signed up, but it is strongly encouraged," said Haslag.

"We do have a plan in place and we're doing everything we can to educate our students and our employees on the plan, you know all we can do is try to be as prepared as possible," said Faye Burchard, Columbia College Campus Life Dean.

It's a plan administrators never want to have to use, but one that's ready just in case.