Navigating College Tours: Importance of Asking Questions About Sexual Assault
It was a year ago today when my then-high school senior began to receive college acceptance letters, and we began planning our college tours. Naturally, we were excited! We started to look up all the possible questions we should ask our tour guides, admin, and staff during our college visits. We created a list of questions ranging from housing and academics to financial aid and educational support. As a sexual assault prevention educator, it became clear that a topic was missing from all the lists we gathered. Where were the questions about sexual assault on campus, and what program(s) are employed to create a safe learning environment for students?
I understand that discussing sexual assault can be challenging for both students and parents. However, given that 50% of sexual assaults involving first-year and new students occur during the Red Zone period -the first day of their arrival on campus, extending up to Thanksgiving break. I believe it is crucial to be attuned to and ask how campuses are addressing this very real issue and/or reality. [1]
Now, I am not writing about this to scare you or dampen your mood; I want you to be excited about exploring college life, your future profession, self-discovery, and your sexuality. However, gathering as much information as possible when deciding what university you choose to attend is essential as well. For the average student, campuses are your 'home' for the next four years. Being empowered with information helps give you some assurance in making the best decision for your education and your safety.
Let's dive into some information that will encourage and support you in asking the right questions about sexual assault prevention during your tours and beyond.
Why is it even important to bring up sexual assault prevention during college tours?
While you may think this will attract unwanted attention from the crowd, understand it's about creating open conversations, building awareness, and empowering YOU to choose a place that values your safety because you deserve it… everyone does.
It's important to bring up the topic because other people have the same questions and don't have the courage to ask. Your questions will initiate conversation and, at the very least, consideration of the topic.
Asking about sexual assault prevention initiatives contributes to creating awareness. It signals to the university that students and their families prioritize safety and potentially encourages them to invest in comprehensive programs.
How can you tell if a college takes sexual assault prevention and safety seriously?
Look out for clues or signal topics -from prevention programs to reporting procedures; these indicators are some of the data that reveal whether a college prioritizes a safe campus environment.
Sometimes, the person conducting the tour does not have the information, and that is ok. You can ask what campus officials you can speak with directly to obtain more information. Note, however, that if your tour guide doesn't have some basic information, it could give you an insight into how unaware the campus population is of the relevance of sexual assault.
Another way to research a campus's approach to sexual assault prevention is by exploring the university's website. When researching, keep in mind if the information is easily accessible. Is the code of conduct available and easy to navigate? What rights do you have should you be assaulted? Can you locate any information on prevention/educational training? Suppose the college fails to articulate these procedures clearly or downplays their prevalence. In that case, it can indicate insufficient support for survivors and a lack of transparency.
What are positive signs that a college/university does take sexual assault prevention seriously?
I would preface this answer by saying all colleges/universities could actively improve upon their current standards by consistently exploring ways to support students and engage the student population in real-world prevention education. Legislation influences what resources are created. While profound progress has been made along the way, solely relying on laws that focus primarily on post-assault is not a best practice.[2] I have come to recognize that the reason I place so much focus on prevention is because I truly believe that if we as a society worked on breaking cycles of harmful social norms, if we engaged healthily in discussing what sex is, and if we were courageous enough to address systemic power, we would be better equipped at raising children that become young adults who are more considerate of the world and people they interact with.
Having said that, there are some areas to consider when looking at a university that has better sexual assault prevention programs and post-assault supports. Having confidential advocates who are separate and independent from Title IX departments is key. Title IX has its nuances, but what is important to know is that some information must be disclosed in order to file a formal complaint.[3] Confidential advocates, well-versed in trauma-informed care, should be available to offer unwavering support, guidance, intervention, and advocacy. Throughout, they prioritize the survivor's autonomy and respect their decision-making process.
Consider whether there is a robust support system for students. Are there counseling centers with strong staff, or do they rely solely on a single staff member and outside resources to support students? Do they provide training to students about Title IX and survivor resources outside of an 'honors system' virtual presentation throughout the year? Many of these questions can be answered during your visits, research, and even speaking with on-campus support groups.
As you venture into college tours, keep safety at the forefront. Be engaged in asking questions that matter. Explore how colleges educate students, support survivors, and implement effective prevention strategies. There is no one foolproof method in selecting the right school or preventing sexual assault. There is research to suggest that the most effective prevention is comprehensive sex education starting as early as elementary school. [4] Asking questions and understanding a college's dedication to preventing sexual assault can assist you in choosing an academic journey that is potentially a safer and more supportive one.
Jennifer “Jenna” Almonte
Sexual Violence Prevention Speaker and Advocate
Creator of The I AM Journey
[1] https://www.leda.co/blog/what-is-the-red-zone
[2]https://www.bu.edu/bulawreview/2023/03/17/title-ixs-unrealized-potential-to-prevent-sexual-violence/
[3]https://www.duffylawct.com/are-title-ix-complaints-public/
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ABOUT THE WRITER
Jennifer “Jenna” Almonte is a dedicated sexual violence prevention speaker and advocate, who leverages her social media platform to educate both young adults and their parents on essential topics like healthy relationships, sex education, consent and boundaries; which she believes is part of SA prevention. As a parent of a college student, elementary school child and Sexual Violence Survivor, she brings a unique perspective to the table and encourages nurturing continued open dialogues about safer, more informed communities.
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