Attending college for the first time, there are new things to learn, a new place to live and most exciting of all-new men and women to date.
However, when it comes to the foreign territory of college dating, playing it safe is the most important lesson.
According to Katina Fletcher, senior African studies major, dating should be fun and exciting, while taking the proper precautions.
"It's OK to go out but you have to make wise decisions," she said. "Don't fall for the sweet little nothings."
Although the instances of sexual assaults and domestic violence reported to police services are extremely rare, that does not mean that students should not still exercise caution.
"You have to use common sense and good judgment when it comes to dating, especially if you're new to it," said Stephanie McKinney, junior nursing major. "You may be just out to have fun but others may have something else in mind. Be sure to make your intentions clear."
According to the Dating Violence Resource Center, a program of the National Center for Victims of Crimes, nationally instances of domestic violence and sexual assaults are not as rare as it is at University of Memphis.
Their reports show that 32 percent of students report dating violence by a previous partner, and only 21 percent report violence by a current partner. It has also been found that approximately 39 percent-54 percent of dating violence victims remain in physically abusive relationships.
Jermaine Mack, freshman electrical engineering major, offers a simple piece of advice to incoming freshmen daters.
"Have fun and get to know people," he said. "Don't get stuck on one person. There are more fish in the sea."
