by Bea Peterson
HFCS Senior Girls received a powerful lesson on life in the outside world Wednesday, May 19, from Physical Education teacher Lisa Ferrannini and Health teacher Colleen Corcoran. Elaine Houston of Channel 13 television observed the session and put together a piece on it that aired Thursday evening, May 20, as part of her Today’s Women series. It can be viewed on the station’s website.
During the two period program the girls were advised on choosing a college roommate, selecting a place to live, either at college or on their own, and making it safe. They were also advised on participating
safely in the college social scene.
Ferrannini advised them to trust their intuition, to use good judgement, to be observant and to be personally responsible when drinking. Corcoran warned them of the dangers of fast acting date rape drugs. They delved into sexual harassment and dating violence. The tragic story of college senior Yeardley Love, allegedly slain by her boyfriend and recently appearing in People magazine was fresh in everyone’s mind. Ferrannini related stories of former students who have told her of their bad experiences and several girls shared similar stories about people they knew.
Besides the detailed handouts each girl was given a copy of Erin Weed’s book Girls Fight Back, The College Girl’s Guide to Protecting Herself. Weed wrote the book after one of her best friends was murdered when someone broke into her apartment. In her friend’s name she and other trained counselors hold seminars and speak to young women nationwide on how to stay safe. The book is an easy read and extremely informative. It’s not written to frighten girls; it’s written to make girls think smart about their defense and well being. Weed has a website with more information about her program and where a copy of her book can be purchased.
