Hi, everyone! I am new to this website, but I thought I would come on here to receive some feedback about a fear of mine. I am going to be transferring to Loyola University Chicago for Spring '17. I am already from Chicago, but I will more than likely choose to live on campus in a dorm. I really love the school and think it is a great choice. However, I am in fear of being sexually assaulted or raped. I’m not a big party-person and I know that many times (not all) people go after someone who is intoxicated. I know within the past month there have been four cases of sexual assault/gropings that happened on the street. The police were able to catch the guy, which is good. I’m of petite size and I am still a virgin. I keep putting off admissions because my stomach starts to ache and I start questing if I should go there. I haven’t thought about this until my mom brought it up to me that she is worried about my safety. When I got my acceptance letter last week I was so happy and excited but now I’m frightened ever since she said that she is worried about me living up there. I was wondering what your thoughts were and what I should do. Thank you so much for reading this and answering!
Would taking some self-defense classes make you feel better? Getting a whistle/alarm? Talking out your fears with a counselor?
Great idea by bondanges to empower yourself. When I was single I carried pepper spray with me. It just made me feel safer. I also always walked with others at night on campus and never left a party alone. If I couldn’t be with a friend I would walk close to another group and sort of “draft” to use a cycling analyogy. If I had a daughter I think a self-defense and safety class would be a great idea. But try to remember, you will be ok. Most people go to college and never have a problem.
Yes, I was thinking about taking a self-defense class and probably buying mace. Thank you for responding!