College freshmen at higher risk of sexual violence; resources available in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Back-to-school season is an exciting time for many college students, but it comes with a threat that’s often overlooked.

College freshmen in particular are at an increased risk of sexual violence.

“A peak time for sexual assault offenses is usually during the first six weeks of the fall semester,” said Cari Emerson, an advocate for sexual assault victims at the Hope Crisis Center.  “And sadly, our freshmen are a target, and it’s simply because freshmen are new to the area.”

That’s why the center is raising awareness.

It’s offering free, confidential services to students both on and off campus.

That includes rides to the hospital, assistance with protection orders, emotional support and more.

According to research shared by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 1 in 5 women will be a victim of sexual assault while in college.

That number includes attempted assaults.

The nonprofit also said that 9 out of 10 victims know the person who attacked them.

And more than 90% of victims on college campuses do not report the assault.

The Hope Crisis Center helps victims in seven counties in southeast Nebraska: Seward, Gage, Saline, York, Thayer, Fillmore and Jefferson. 

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln also has on-campus resources for victims.  

The Center for Advocacy, Response and Education- also known as CARE- is a place to start. 

Director Melissa Wilkerson said the center is confidential.

“We aren’t required to then file a report with law enforcement,” she said. “We would definitely recommend to always talk with a confidential person first so you can understand your options and what those options might look like.”