Berkeley. The prestigious school that every high-achieving student dreams of attending. Berkeley. The city that rumbles and breathes with excitement at 1 a.m. in the morning. From a multitude of sources, I constantly hear that Berkeley is one of the most ideal places to spend undergraduate years. I have yet to find evidence that proves otherwise.
In the midst of it all, however, there are undeniably moments when we get so familiar and comfortable that we place safety out of our minds. Just this past week, newspapers have indicated three sexual assaults in Southside. Though Berkeley is an all-around lovely place, let us continue to remind ourselves of habits that may promote greater safety.
1. Whenever possible, be with other people.
This may seem like a trivial idea but a group of two is much less easy to threaten than one lone person. If it is impossible to be with company, make sure to let a friend or a roommate know where you are heading in the very least.
2. Free your senses.
We’ve all become extremely used to having a personal soundtrack playing in our lives and music is irreplaceable. That being said, having as little distraction for all your senses, whether it be eyes or ears, will be beneficial for overall awareness.
3. Keep a range from strangers
As the mantra goes, “stranger danger”. The level of friendliness in Berkeley is incredibly reflective of our open community. Though there is a social duty in being respectful, never feel the obligation to interact with anyone that may make you potentially uncomfortable.
As for the next few weeks, may you all be safe and sound.