Anonymous
Cannon Contributor
Dear Skule™,
You are the most kind, welcoming, and inclusive community I’ve ever encountered. When I first stepped on campus, I was greeted by alarmingly excited purple people, and I wasn’t quite sure what I was in for. Not only did I get a crazy and fantastic week, but an amazing support system through my first year. However, I didn’t realize how good of a support system I truly had until I really needed it.
During my time here, I’ve been sexually assaulted. I was, in a word, devastated. I felt ashamed and didn’t feel I could confide in anyone, let alone report it. But when I couldn’t speak up for myself, Skule™ stepped up and protected me. Friends and acquaintances tried to do their best in making me feel safe, supported, and welcome on campus. No one ever pried or disrespected my privacy. I can’t express what it meant to me that people in Skule™ would go out of their way to help someone in need. Despite having a lot of self doubt and not believing in myself, they helped me believe I wasn’t alone.
Recovery is an ongoing process and I’ve experienced some setbacks. One night, I took a knife from the kitchen, locked myself in the bathroom, and had every intention of hurting myself. In my distress, I was interrupted by a Skule™ notification on my phone. It was a seemingly inconsequential thing, but in that moment, I was reminded of the wonderful community of people who had my back.
Bit by bit, the community in Skule™ has pulled me out of my isolation. I have been surrounded by incredible people who I don’t want to leave. Some days are good, but I still struggle from time to time. I hope to give back to this community which threw me the lifeline I needed while I was drowning at sea. I’m proud to be a Skuligan.
Thanks for saving my life, Skule™. I owe you one.