In November, four college students tragically lost their lives. Lives that should have never been taken. These four victims left behind friends, brothers, sisters, neighbors, and fellow classmates who are absolutely heartbroken. It is stories like the Idaho tragedy that leave communities stronger than ever; however, the road to feeling better is never an easy one.
As a fellow college student, I was left horrified by what occurred that night and it has changed my perspective on how difficult it can be to live constantly safe and then in danger seconds later. It is unfair that four students who had goals, careers and big plans ahead, were taken away from this world so soon.
Safety is no longer what it used to be. Campuses should definitely do more to increase security if they have not yet even for those students that do live off campus. I think it is important to note that when things of this nature come up, it is crucial for us to become more aware of our surroundings, especially as college students.
Safety should be prioritized more, along with checking in on one another. There is never a limit when asking to help people or simply asking if they are okay. It is when these horrible tragedies occur that we also remember the lives that Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan lived.
They were a group of friends who cared about one another and were there for each other. They attended a university where they were loved by many and created memories and left positive marks on the many relationships they had. My heart and condolences go to their family. I know that justice will have its way.
In the meantime, these four students should be dedicated in a way where no college student should ever have to face a situation like they faced that night ever again. No students should have to lose their fellow classmates because of a heinous crime in their college town. No parents should ever have to bury their child before they even get to finish school. It is not fair, but it makes us understand that it took these four lives to spark an engagement in the community to come together and be determined more than ever to make sure no threat ever comes again.