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 “No matter how much training you have, you can’t be positive about your abilities until you’re in that situation.” —Kathy Saichuk, coordinator, Student Health Center |
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Rape Aggression Defense System (RAD) Courses Taught at LSU LSU has always been proactive in its approach to secure the safety of its students, staff, and faculty. Whether it’s through the card-access security system in the residence halls, abundance of campus lighting, or the free on-campus transit service that runs during evening hours, students know that safety is one of LSU’s top priorities. The recent events that have placed Baton Rouge in the national news have also heightened many residents’ concerns about safety. As a result, there has been a dramatic rise in the number of people registering for the Rape Aggression Defense System (RAD) courses taught at LSU. The classes have been offered for the last four years, but the events of this summer have resulted in an increased demand for enrollment. The RAD System is a program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques. The 12-hour course, taught during four three-hour sessions, is designed so that anyone—regardless of age, physical build or attributes—can perform the techniques necessary for self-defense. “It doesn’t require any excessive amount of personal strength,” said Kathy Saichuk, a coordinator in the Wellness Education section of the Student Health Center. “The course is based on the rules of physics, motion, and personal defense. It’s also designed in such a manner that anyone can execute the skills and movements necessary.” Hence, part of the program’s success is due to the simplicity of the defense tactics. But the rest lies in what the program does for its participants, not only physically, but mentally. While many may be able to learn the necessary techniques, believing they can actually perform them when necessary is another story altogether. “No matter how much training you have, you can’t be positive about your abilities until you’re in that situation,” Saichuk said. The first night (of class) is different from the second night. The women become more assertive, and by the third night with the simulations, their instincts start to kick in. Once a student has completed the course, however, she becomes a lifetime member and may return any time free of charge to continue sharpening her skills. Last updated September 2002
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