Big Sister’s Guide: College Red Zone and Acquaintance Rape
I’ve always been a big sister, which is probably why I do what I do. So, from a Big Sister aspect, I want to know my little sisters know how to keep themselves safe as they arrive on campus. So, consider me as your honorary sorority big sister for a moment. Hey, Sis…welcome to campus and your new life! This is the start of your amazing journey, so I want to let you know a few things to be wary of, especially regarding your personal safety. It's not the most comfortable topic, so no one else may these things out to you, but I’ve got your back.
Understanding the College Red Zone
The College Red Zone is the time between the start of the fall semester and Thanksgiving break when first-year students, particularly women, are at the highest risk of sexual assault. Studies have shown that more than 50% of college sexual assaults occur during this time. There are a lot of reasons—you’re new on campus, this is your first time living away from home, you want to fit in, maybe try some alcohol and drugs, and you’re not familiar with your new life yet. And predators are also aware of all of this.
As a new student, you’re excited to make friends and exploring your freedom. But this period of adjustment can also make you more vulnerable to those predators. So this is not about being paranoid; it’s about being aware and having the information you need to protect yourself.
Acquaintance Rape: What You Need to Know
Acquaintance rape, or date rape, occurs when the perpetrator is someone the victim knows, such as a classmate, friend, or even a romantic partner. This type of rape is especially prevalent in college settings, where social circles overlap and trust is often given too easily.
According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), approximately 26.4% of undergraduate women experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation. And what’s even more alarming is that 8 out of 10 rapes are committed by someone the victim knows. This is why it’s so important for you to be cautious, even in situations where you think that you’re safe. You may not know how much danger you’re actually in until it’s too late.
The Reality of College Life
Here are a couple of incidents that highlight the importance of being vigilant:
In 2015, a student at Stanford University was sexually assaulted by Brock Turner, a fellow student, after a party. Turner was someone she met at a party that night—an acquaintance. Her story, and the subsequent trial, made national headlines, and it’s just one of many cases where the perpetrator was someone the victim knew.
In another incident, a first-year student at a large state university was raped by a classmate after a night of drinking. They had been hanging out in a group and she thought he was just being friendly. It wasn’t until they were alone that he forced himself on her. She later reported feeling ashamed and confused because she thought she could trust him.
These stories aren’t meant to scare you, but to remind you that even in seemingly safe situations, you need to be cautious.
Tips for Protecting Yourself
Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. So, trust your instincts (what we call your Safety Intuition.) Don’t be afraid to leave a situation that makes you uncomfortable, even if it means disappointing others. And it’s important that you leave as soon as you can.
Stick with Friends: Always go to parties or social events with a group of friends and make a pact to leave together. There’s safety in numbers, and your friends can watch out for you. You can even work out some secret signals ahead of time, so that you all know exactly what to do.
Watch Your Drinks: Never leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept drinks from someone you don’t know or trust. Spiking drinks with drugs like Rohypnol or GHB is a common tactic used by predators.
Know Your Limits: Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and can impair your judgment. Know your limits and stick to them. It’s okay to say no to another drink, or to not drink at all.
Set Boundaries: Be clear about your boundaries in any relationship. Don’t feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with, and don’t hesitate to assert yourself. Someone who keeps testing those boundaries is a red flag. We say: Be Persuasion-Proof.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Whether you’re on campus, at a party, or walking home, always be aware of your surroundings. Again, use your Safety Intuition. Avoid secluded areas and stick to well-lit paths.
Know Campus Resources: Familiarize yourself with campus safety resources like escort services, emergency phones, and counseling centers. These resources are there to help you.
What to Do If You’re the Victim of Rape
If you or someone you know has been the victim of rape, the most important thing to remember is that it’s not your fault. You are not alone, and there are steps you can take to get the support you need.
Get to a Safe Place: If you’re in immediate danger, find a safe location away from the perpetrator. This could be a friend’s room, a public place, or anywhere you feel secure.
Seek Medical Attention ASAP: It’s important to get medical care as soon as possible, even if you don’t think that you have visible injuries. A healthcare provider can perform a sexual assault forensic exam (often called a rape kit) to collect evidence and check for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.
Preserve Evidence: Try not to shower, change clothes, or clean up before seeking medical attention, as this can destroy important evidence. If you do change clothes, put them in a paper bag to give to the authorities.
Report the Assault: You have the option to report the assault to campus security or local law enforcement. While reporting can be a difficult decision, it can also be an important step in holding the perpetrator accountable and preventing future assaults.
Seek Counseling: Sexual assault can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects. Many campuses offer free counseling services to help you process your feelings and begin healing.
Lean on Your Support System: Don’t be afraid to talk to friends, family, or trusted mentors about what happened. You don’t have to go through this alone—there are people who care about you and want to help.
As your big sister, I want you to have the best college experience possible, and that includes staying safe. Your first semester is exciting, but it’s also a time when you need to be extra cautious. Acquaintance rape is a real and serious threat, but by staying informed, trusting your instincts, and looking out for one another, you can protect yourself and your friends.
Remember, you are never alone. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need help, reach out. Whether it’s to me, a friend, or a campus resource, there are people who care about you and want to support you.
Stay safe, stay smart, and most importantly, take care of yourself and your sisters.
