My daughter graduated with a degree in biology in 2007.

You have given good advice, but it also applies to 60 year old males.

Danger is relative. I would rather have my daughter solo backpacking than:

On a road trip with her friends,

At a fraternity kegger,

Leaving a dance club late at night,

Spring break in Mexico, and

Etc.

Dad should be grateful that his daughter wants an adventure where the danger comes mostly from her own mistakes.

What is scary for parents is when you realize you can no longer help. I came to that realization when my daughter asked about a calculus problem.

I hope Dad can trust his daughters instincts, because they will keep her safe.