Let’s be honest, sex is a relevant aspect of college culture. Without the watchful eye of parents, freshmen are given an abundance of freedom that can be exercised in many ways. However, before running wild, freshmen should do whatever they can to safely engage with the birds and bees. 

Sexually transmitted infections are on the rise all around the country. The Austin area alone has the highest infection rate for chlamydia in the state. While most STIs can be treated with medication, there are major consequences if left untreated. 

Freshmen should utilize the STI services provided by University Health Services to protect themselves and the community before participating in sexual activity.  

Biology freshman Faith Hernandez says that sex is a reoccurring topic in dorm life. She said she is considering getting STI tested, especially with how large the student body is.

“I know some people who weren’t given a sense of independence until they came to college, so they’re going to multiple parties and meeting new people,” Hernandez said. “But because there are thousands of other students on campus, you’re open to catching an STI.” 

STIs are reported most among college-aged individuals. Besides choosing to practice abstinence, properly wearing a condom or dental dam is the only way to reduce the risk of a STI. Freshmen could be carrying untreated STIs if they were sexually active in high school. Luckily, UHS offers STI testing and treatment at a low cost.

Brittany O’Malley, assistant director for prevention for Healthyhorns, said that while there has been an increased interest in their services, all sexually active students should get tested. 

“Once you’re engaged in sexual activity regularly, (getting tested) helps you have a peace of mind and helps prevent the spread of STIs in our community,” O’Malley said. 

Testing is not the only service provided by UHS. The Longhorn Wellness Center provides student led workshops, free and low-cost condoms and information about off campus testing locations. While all students should take advantage of these resources, freshmen in particular should heavily consider what the University has to offer. 

Starting a college career brings lots of responsibility, especially in terms of students’ health. This is the time where freshmen often experiment with new partners and alcohol, two factors that could potentially lead to risky sexual behavior. Establishing healthy habits — like getting regularly tested — will not only protect students from STIs, but also help slow the spread here on the Forty Acres. 

“Testing is definitely an appropriate topic to bring up to students,” Hernandez said. “We are just now stepping into adult life, and I wouldn’t consider this a touchy subject because there shouldn’t be any judgment towards it.” 

It’s important to realize that STIs do not have to be a taboo topic, and it’s time to destroy the stigma around them.  

“I think it’s normal to have a lot of different emotions with STI testing,” O’Malley said. “I just validate that and even the fact that (students) are researching what they have access to is a wonderful step to taking care of yourself and your partner.” 

So freshmen, if you just became sexually active, or have been for sometime, consider getting STI tested in order to protect your health, your partner and fellow students. 

Leon is a journalism sophomore from Houston, Texas.