Sexual assault on college campuses?

I've been doing my research on college picks and this is a bit of an uncomfortable topic, but I believe it's crucial. Do colleges disclose statistics on sexual assault cases on their campuses? How can I find out about the safety measures in place to prevent such incidents?

You're right, it's an incredibly important topic. I commend you for looking into this as you research your college options.

Yes, colleges are obligated by The Clery Act to annually release statistics that include reported crimes on campus, including sexual assault cases. This report, usually known as the Annual Security Report (ASR), can often be found on a university's public safety or campus police website. Do keep in mind that these are reported numbers, so they may not fully reflect the actual occurrence rate, but it can certainly give you an idea.

In terms of safety measures, colleges usually have a number of systems in place. There should be clear reporting protocols, places for confidential reporting, as well as victim support services. On top of that, they typically have safety programs such as campus escorts or walk-safe programs for late nights. Some universities might also have instantaneous emergency notification systems or blue light emergency phone stations across campuses.

Many colleges also mandate sexual assault prevention training for students, especially incoming first-years. This often includes defining sexual assault, along with how one can intervene if necessary, and the resources available to survivors.

Lastly, you could even email or call the university with specific questions about these policies. Remember it's not just about the numbers, but also about how the university responds to incidents and supports survivors. It's definitely a tricky subject, but being informed and aware can help make the pushing for change more possible!