This summer my mom and I encountered a situation that neither of us were prepared for or had anticipated. We had spent ten days in Guatemala and were in the Guatemala City airport awaiting our return flight to Miami. While we were sitting down, a woman dressed in tourist gear (Keen hiking shoes, cargo pants, traveling backpack, and a bandana) began to circle us. For ten minutes she proceeded to walk past us, closely swiping our knees, and giving us dirty looks. She then stationed herself at the head of the check-line and waited conspicuously for my mother and me to board. At this point, it was clear that we were being targeted. My mom contacted an airport official and we were quickly removed from the flight.
Surprisingly, while an airport is far different from a college campus, this anecdotal warning pertains to the bustling college social life at Binghamton University. As the first couple of weeks approach, frats and bars will be handing out fliers and announcing drink specials, which will make staying alert, safe, and aware of your surroundings even more crucial.
I learned vital lessons from the airport experience. The first lesson being to remain aware and to immediately let someone know if there is someone who is making you feel uncomfortable. Whether it is a friend or a bouncer at a bar let someone know who can keep an eye on you and your unwanted follower.
Beth Riley, Coordinator of Sexual Assault Programs at Binghamton University notes that while out students should stay alert, “Be aware of your situation and surroundings — don’t drink the punch, don’t let anyone take advantage of someone under the influence. And travel in groups!”
Wendy Feuer, a sophomore majoring in Biology, also shared the belief that their is safety in numbers, “I always go with a group of friends and we have a buddy system so nobody gets lost.”
It can be especially difficult as a freshman trying to navigate Downtown Binghamton. Perhaps the most important lesson is to always remain cautious. I never thought that anyone, let alone someone who looked like a fellow tourist, and in an airport would follow me deliberately! However, this does not mean to avoid going out and socializing! Just remember to always remain alert and take appropriate safety measures.