When are college women at the highest risk of experiencing sexual assault?

College women are at the highest risk of experiencing sexual assault during their first semester of college. This period is often characterized by a significant transition for students, where they are navigating a new environment, social pressures, and the adjustment to living away from home. Many first-year students are particularly vulnerable as they are establishing social connections and might engage in new behaviors. Statistics from various studies indicate that the likelihood of sexual assault is elevated during this time due to factors such as inexperience with college social culture, increased alcohol consumption at social events, and a lack of awareness about consent and risk factors associated with sexual violence. This highlights the importance of awareness and preventive measures targeted at incoming students during their initial college experience.