Colleges and universities can be places of great freedom. Students can choose where and how they want to spend their time, and there is no shortage of ways to keep oneself busy. One aspect of the college experience that often goes ignored, however, is the way that a jam-packed schedule requires an individual to travel from place to place with great frequency. More common than not, students go about their days not in large groups, but rather on their own. It is important, therefore, to be alert when moving from one space to the next.
College women, specifically, face each day and each experience with an elevated risk and target on their backs. According to data from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in five women are sexually assaulted while in college and 91% of the victims of rape and sexual assault are female.
Despite these harrowing statistics, there are still ways to fight back—literally and figuratively. By arming oneself with the knowledge of self-defense basics and the best ways to contact resources, college women can stand up to campus assault and protect themselves one life-saving skill at a time.
1. Always Be Alert
We see it far too often: unsuspecting college students burying their faces in their phones as they read text messages or the latest Twitter update. Experts say that this is one of the most crucial mistakes an individual can make. When paying attention to your phone—and not your surroundings—you lose a sense of your surroundings and the ability to assess a potentially dangerous situation. Keep your head up, eyes watchful, headphones out of your ears, and do a sweep of the space ahead and behind you. This is especially important at night.
2. Use The Buddy System When You Can
It’s no surprise to hear that warding off attackers is much easier to do in a group versus alone. If you have an evening class and have to walk to your car or apartment after dark, it’s best to walk with at least one other student. Get to know fellow students in your class and carry on a conversation as you walk to the car park, or even call a friend to meet you at your building or a midway point. Don’t think that you’re overreacting; it’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Have Campus PD Programmed In Your Phone
Campus police are a great resource for students to utilize, especially when you’re stuck on campus or don’t feel safe walking alone. They will often give you rides when you call for an escort to your car or apartment, and are the first place to call in case of an emergency. Check out your school’s safety services website or stop by in person to learn about the ways these departments work to keep you safe. For UAkron Zips, visit UAPD here or call at: 330-972-2911. Sign up for Z-Alert as a way of receiving emergency text services. Safety patrol officers can be found throughout the neighborhoods near UA, as well, where many students live off-campus.
4. Use Your Voice With Confidence
Attackers often assume that their victims will be too fearful to fight back. By being as loud as possible and creating as much of a commotion as you can, it is possible to momentarily shock an attacker while also attracting the attention of other people who may help you. Asserting commands such as, “BACK OFF” and “DON’T TOUCH ME,” will take anyone by surprise. Shouting “FIRE” is also a common way to grab the attention of those nearby. Studies have shown that confidence can truly be a life saving technique in preventing and surviving an attack.
5. Use Attack Techniques As A Last Resort
If confrontation cannot be avoided, you must be prepared to use force. In an emergency situation, it is important to strike fully and without hesitation. The three critical strike zones are: the eyes, throat, and groin. It’s best to aim for one of these areas in order to destabilize the attacker. Don’t forget to use your voice to yell for help the entire time, and be aware of how to use your surroundings as a possible escape. In a situation where adrenaline is high and outcomes are life versus death, there is no line between what you can and cannot do. Strike with purpose and flee to safety as soon as possible.
6. Take A Self Defense Class When Offered
Whenever you can, try to take a self-defense class to refresh your skills and knowledge. It’s important to stay on top of your techniques, and the best way to do so is to join other students during free classes or seminars offered on campus. Gather your group of friends and spend an hour or two learning skills that will boost your confidence around campus and off, and give yourself the assurance that you can handle yourself in any situation.