Introduction
On March 18, I embarked on an exciting new chapter by joining Gorloks Aware, a violence prevention on campus program at Webster University. As I reflect on the past six months, it’s clear that this experience has been nothing short of transformative, both professionally and personally.
Gorloks Aware is not just another campus program; it’s a movement toward creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all. This violence prevention on campus program raises awareness through various campaigns, including the Green Dot initiative, which provides bystander intervention training, Sneaky Links, which focuses on discussing healthy and unhealthy relationships, and the “What Would You Do?” table, where students, staff, and faculty engage in critical conversations about violence.
As an international student, navigating this journey in a new cultural context has added an extra layer of learning. It has opened my eyes to the importance of awareness, consent, and community support in ways I hadn’t imagined before. Here are five key takeaways from my time with Gorloks Aware:
1. Cultural Sensitivity
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is discussing sensitive topics like consent and personal safety across diverse cultural backgrounds. This has taught me the value of understanding different perspectives and navigating conversations with care and empathy. Every discussion has enriched my understanding of these issues and fostered a deeper sense of connection with those around me.
2. Empowerment Through Education
I’ve seen firsthand how educating peers about their rights and available resources can truly empower them. Whether it’s knowing when and how to speak up or being aware of the support systems in place, knowledge is power. Witnessing the impact of shared information on someone’s life has been one of the most inspiring parts of this journey.
3. Empathy & Effective Communication
Being in this role has helped me refine my listening and communication skills, particularly when discussing sensitive subjects. I’ve learned to engage in conversations with empathy and openness, respecting the diverse social and cultural perspectives of others. These skills are invaluable, especially when working to create an inclusive environment.
4. Collaboration & Leadership
Working with a diverse and passionate team has strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively. I’ve also had opportunities to lead discussions and initiatives, which has been an incredible learning experience. Violence prevention is not a one-person effort—it requires teamwork, respect for diverse viewpoints, and unified leadership.
5. Advocacy Matters
Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned is the power of advocacy. Standing up against violence in all its forms is crucial to fostering a culture of respect, and I’m proud to be part of an initiative that champions this cause. The work we do at Gorloks Aware is shaping a future where everyone can feel safe, respected, and supported.
I take immense pride in the positive impact our program has on campus, and I’m excited to continue contributing to this mission. Gorloks Aware has not only given me a platform to advocate for important issues but has also allowed me to grow personally and professionally.
I look forward to continuing this exciting journey and playing my part in building a safer, more inclusive community at Webster University.