I am writing this letter in a plea to all students, especially female, to take all necessary precautions when walking to and from class at night.

In light of Tuesday’s early evening assault, it has apparently become dangerous to simply walk to class. Many of us are already aware of the danger of walking alone at night off campus. But up until this point I think it is safe to say many of us never really considered we may be in danger on campus – even when walking to class.

I take precautions on weekends when I know I will be out – I either arrange for a ride home or at least one friend to walk with. But I have never considered myself unsafe walking back from my 6 p.m. class until now.

My question is: When did it become unsafe for a student who lives on campus to leave his or her room to walk to class? I realize with winter comes less daylight, but there is something gravely wrong when a student cannot even go to class without feeling scared.

It is becoming apparent there are fewer and fewer real “safe places” that exist, even in a small, generally safe town such as Bowling Green. If students are no longer safe on campus, where do we turn?

I encourage everyone, especially women (who are unfortunately more susceptible to these assaults) to carry some form of protection – or at least be prepared to defend yourself should the need arise (consider in the infamous “Miss Congeniality” acronym S.I.N.G.). I also encourage the University Police Department and the administration not to take this matter lightly.

Please don’t ignore the safety of the students. Hopefully, we will see an increased effort on the part of our University to keep its students safe on their way to class. In the meantime, please stay alert: Be aware of those walking nearby, don’t let headphones distract you from potential danger, and by all means be prepared in case of emergency.

Elise Adams is a senior majoring in history.