We can all help prevent sexual assault, and as the school year starts again this fall, there is no more critical time to learn how. For college students, sexual assault is a problem that affects a large portion of students every year. Undergraduate women aged 18 to 24 are three times as likely to be a victim of sexual assault compared to the rest of the female population. If you’re a college student, learning how to intervene in situations can help keep you and your friends safe. Being an advocate and stepping in to help can make a difference, but you should only attempt to intervene if you feel comfortable. If you feel that someone’s safety is in jeopardy, including your own, call the police. Here’s what you can do to prevent sexual assault as a college student. Be Direct If you are unsure whether someone is in a situation that could lead to sexual assault, the best thing to do is ask them. Questions like “are you alright?” and “do you need me to stay with you?” can signal to the person in need as well as a predator that you’re watching. Create a Distraction Creating a distraction without …
