Maintaining Personal Safety on Campus

The self-defense class begins its routine with a set of jumping jacks as a way to warm up and get the muscles stretched for the techniques students will be taught in class today.

The class seems filled to capacity, a sign that students have an interest to learn safety measures that may offer them a better sense of protection while on campus.

“I’ve had 3 years of Shotokon karate, so I’m happy to have gotten into this class, it’s a lot of fun too,” Bethany Hadley, 18, Dance major said.

Physical education instructor Tim W. Hood teaches the Self Defense class, and states that students take it for many varied reasons, one of which is to evaluate their positions in case they are placed in unsafe positions in public where their safety may be at risk.

“I think most people have an interest in learning (self defense) because we all know someone or have read about local incidents where there was an attack,” Hood said.

“I’ve probably taken his class 5 times in a row, one because he’s a very personable teacher, and secondly, because I have learned so much. I’m more alert and aware of my surroundings at all times because of his teachings,” Richard Galvan, 23, Studio art major said.

Hood believes that most incidents can be avoided through awareness, as well as seeing the potential as a victim and avoiding it. One of the first assignments he gives his students is to, by examining their lives on a daily basis, find at least 5 areas where they are vulnerable to attack. Once those are identifiable steps can be taken to prevent further incidents.

Hadley, who is now a green belt, believes the classes offer a great amount of strengthening for her, particularly since her interest is dancing.

“Coordination is another plus, I find that as I am a recovering from a brain injury as a child, that the discipline and workout keep me in great shape. In case I’m confronted I can deflect moves put upon me and actually avoid some spontaneous encounters. It really helps me put things in perspective when I encounter tense situations. I’m very sharp,” Galvan said.

Hood believes that personal assaults on campus have tapered off in recent months.

“I think most people have an interest in learning to defend themselves because we all know someone or have read about local incidents where there was an attack”, said Hood.

“We are all responsible for being aware of our surroundings. Most incidents can be avoided through awareness”.

Hood also gives students a homework assignment at the beginning of the semester. They are to examine their own lives, on a daily basis, and find at least 5 areas where they are vulnerable to being attacked. This makes it more personal and drives home the awareness factor.

“Once you identify your vulnerabilities you can take steps to prevent future incidents”.