By Kara Little, Asst. Forum Editor
Susquehanna University’s Black Student Union (BSU) started off this semester with a bang. They had a number of events that helped to inform the general public about issues that students of color face both on and off campus, as well as support systems that Susquehanna has to offer for their students.
One of the more recent events that Black Student Union co-hosted with Gender Sexuality Alliance was a “Sexual Health” session. Two of the women that work in the Student Health Center, Betsy Magill and M. Yevette Devine, as the guest speakers, talked about ways to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), how to use contraceptives, and what the Student Health Center offers within their services.
The night started off with Magill and Devine passing around cucumbers and condoms, showing their audience how to properly use a condom, as well as the dangers of using it incorrectly. The discussion then moved towards the different types of STDs, how they can be contracted, and the kinds of treatments to consider if contracted.
The two women discussed what the Health Center offered for students. Some of the services offered are, but not limited to, immunizations, allergy injections, and STD testing.
After giving their presentation, Magill and Devine opened the room to any questions. As the session concluded, attendees were offered “goody bags”, filled with items like contraceptives, pamphlets, snacks, and first-aid kits.
I, as the Political Activist of Black Student Union, find this to be my favorite event co-hosted by us so far. This session was much more than your typical middle school health class.
Betsy Magill and M. Yevette Devine made learning about sexual health fun, interactive, and informative.I have learned a few things about what Susquehanna’s student health center offered, like the fact that STD testing provided by them is free of charge towards students.
Another part of the session I enjoyed was that the conversation was directed towards people of all sexual orientations. I am happy Susquehanna staff members are inclusive of all different types of people.
I feel if people in the “LGBTQIA” (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning, intersex, allies and/or asexual) community do not hear as much about sexual health and how they can stay safe, so this information made the session better. The Student Health Center is open Mondays-Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (with an hour allowed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.), and Saturdays from 10-11 a.m.
The staff welcomes all students with open arms and are willing to answer any questions at any given time.
