Community.

It's the UD buzzword.

We have an unofficial open door policy that is unique, but that also promotes a sense of inclusion among students. With this strong sense of community comes an underlying danger. We feel so comfortable here and we know that the majority of the student body are well-rounded, trustworthy people, so we let our guard down.

One problem that is growing on this campus is that of sexual assault. To be perfectly honest, it's not something with which we or anyone we know has been involved, and for this we are extremely thankful. On the flip side, it makes the startling truth just that much more serious. So what is at the root of this problem?

The answer, in the vast majority of cases, is pretty obvious: alcohol. Now we are not by any means trying to justify alcohol as an excuse for rape. There is absolutely no excuse. We are merely asserting that it is a common factor in most cases of sexual assault on this campus, and that needs to be noted.

We know that we have been learning about drug and alcohol use since we were in grade school. We know the facts, we know the preventions; know our drinking limits, never leave our drinks unattended, stay with people we know who will help keep us safe. We would like to believe that most of UD's student body knows the same precautions. Why is it then that sexual assault is a growing threat on our campus?

First, we think that sometimes we have a dangerous mentality when approaching the weekend. We know that we feel extremely overworked during the week and come Friday night, we are more than ready to blow off some steam. But is this mindset a warning sign?

The next problem lies in the technicality of sexual assault. What happens when a person wakes up in a strange bed and doesn't remember the night before? Whose story is the right one? What it comes down to is this: be smart.

Ladies, go out and have fun. Get ready and blow off some steam. Just remember that while drunken consent is not legal consent, it may not protect you from going too far with a guy.

Guys, show some respect for the women around you. We understand the position you are in, but remember the implications of your actions.