Growing up, our parents, teachers and babysitters all taught us about the buddy system.
From a young age, we all knew to use a buddy when crossing the street, walking through the halls of our elementary schools or the infamous mile run in gym class. That buddy system never ceases to exist — especially in college.
College is a time for academics and working toward your goal of being a graduate of Shippensburg University, but sometimes if you are over the age of 21, it is nice to go out and have some fun in moderation.
Although, when out and about, the buddy system is the way to actively heighten your chances of being safe at a bar, a party on Richard Avenue or simply walking alone at night.
Being a buddy is an important job. For instance, a girl is being targeted by guys, all of whom are intoxicated, and the woman’s body language is clear that she is not interested. Knowledge of the buddy system could protect her from unwanted sexual advances in the long run.
Some things you could do to be a buddy is going up and starting a conversation with her.
Pretend you two are the best of friends, which will distract any attention away from her and focus on the two of you.
The same goes with men, receiving unwanted attention from either the same or opposite sex, having a buddy could ensure everyone is having a fun night without fear of being in an uncomfortable situation without a clear exit route.
The buddy system is essential when traveling to big cities as well, especially where the crime rate is substantially higher than in the little town of Shippensburg.
According to Cosmopolitan, “’The person at greatest risk to become a victim is someone who is alone late at night and is also under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said Karen J. Terry, author of “Sexual Offenses and Offenders,” according to Cosmopolitan.
Some tips on how to stay safe at night, at parties or out with friends are:
- Never walk with headphones on
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Avoid dimly lit areas and alleyways
- Walk on sidewalks and in areas with street lamps
- If you feel threatened or unsafe, call 911 or use SU’s campus emergency stations
- We are all here to build community, so watch out for your friends and loved ones — there is not only power in numbers, but also safety
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