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Every fall students come to campus with a mental image of what college is: a time for partying, making new friends and attending football games.

For some, this isn’t a reality.

The Red Zone refers to the first six weeks of college when new students are most vulnerable. According to June Payne, the Ball State director of counseling and health services, the first few months are when new students are at the highest risk for sexual assault, depression and alcohol abuse.

“They are not as familiar with campus, familiar with where they are, familiar with the party scene,” Payne said.

While all students are vulnerable at the beginning of the school year, Payne said new students tend to be at the greatest risk.

Three individuals share their personal stories with sexual assault, depression and alcohol abuse.

Click each icon to read their story.

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