No matter how many times you hear or read about a woman being sexually assaulted, you never think that it could happen to you. Unfortunately, sexual assaults are all too common and can happen to anyone. 1 in 5 women are sexually assaulted while they are in college and sex offense rates are on the rise.
Recently there have been two serious sexual assault reports from Fairfield University. Last semester, a fellow student raped an 18-year-old woman. Since then, the student has been expelled from the University and legal action has been taken outside the school.
Last Friday, another 18-year-old woman was reportedly sexually assaulted. According to NBC Connecticut, the freshman believes she was drugged at a party and forced to perform oral sex on her assailant. The woman was treated at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport and the investigation is still going on.
Fairfield University spokesperson Martha Milcarek said, “At Fairfield University, the safety of our students and the entire campus community is our highest priority.” Yet despite observant campus safety and a considerably safe campus, it is still of vital importance that college women look out for themselves and their friends.
Courtney Cerasuolo ’18 feels as though she has to be very vigilant, as both sexual assault victims this past year were freshmen. “I think sexual assault is a very scary subject” she said, “I believe that I was taught to always keep a close eye on my friends and to never be alone at a party.”
Maura Passione ’16 agreed, “I make sure to be aware of my surroundings especially when I’m in a situation involving alcohol. My friends and I look out for each other and I always trust my gut. If something doesn’t feel right it’s better to take yourself out of the situation all together.”
Sometimes there is nothing that can be done to prevent a sexual attack. No matter how someone behaves or dresses, they never deserve to be abused or disrespected in any way. Victims of sexual assault need to mentally and physically recover after a sexual attack. If you know someone who was assaulted it is very important that you support them and try to help them heal the best way you can.
“I would tell someone who has been sexually assaulted that they are not alone,” said Cerasuolo.
Passione recommends that victims come forward after an attack. “There are so many issues that come with letting situations like these being swept under the rug. And in many cases coming forward will help other people come forward as well.”
According to the Fairfield University website, sexual assault is defined as “any sexual act committed without consent and/or unauthorized penetration with any body part or object.” Public Safety urges all women who have experienced some form of sexual assault or if they feel unsafe at all to call them at (203) 254-4090, (203) 254-400 ext. 4090, or Counseling & Psychological Services at (203) 254-4000 ext. 2146.
To find out more about raising awareness on Fairfield’s campus, check out this article on the “Step Up Stags” initiative.