The start of new eight-week courses at Marshall University’s Recreation Center started Oct. 13- 14 and brought a new group of  students who were ready to learn self-defense techniques.

Marshall University Police Department partnered with the Rape, Aggression, Defense program, or RAD, to provide students with self-defense courses.

“After eight weeks, they (the students) are different. They are changed,” said Scott Ballot, MUPD Officer and State Director for R.A.D. systems. “Once they are finished with the program they realize that ‘Wow I never realized I could do that; I actually am okay. I can protect myself if I need to.’”

Self-defense classes begin as any other, in the classroom. The first two weeks of classes will teach students what self-defense is; this includes risk avoidance, risk reduction and awareness of surroundings. The first portion also explains various types of weapons students can use, from elbows and knees to pepper spray.

“When I first started this class, I felt so intimidated by just being in Huntington, and after taking this course, I felt empowered,” said Makala Caldwell, sophomore biology student. “I can walk down the street and not be afraid.”

According to Ballot, students experience an intense range of emotions during the eight weeks.

The final portion of the class allows students to practice what they learned, by simulating one, two or even three “attackers.”

“It was really hard knowing I was going to put myself in a situation that would make me uncomfortable,” said Samantha Colbert, senior secondary education student.

During the simulation, anywhere from one to three trained officers clad in protective gear act as attackers. Students then use their training to fight their way out of the situation and through the door.

“It showed me I’m not as weak as I thought I was, and I’m not as helpless as women think they are,” Colbert said.

Students’ grades are based on attendance, however, after the eight weeks are over, the women write a reactionary paper. The paper should express all the emotions felt during the class and whatever inner change takes place throughout the course. Ballot then reads the papers and tries to determine the effectiveness of the course.

“You see different students over the years and you know that this was a small part of their college experience, but they tell us this was the best class at Marshall and it literally changed the way they carry themselves,” Ballot said.

The self-defense classes are offered during the first and second eight weeks every semester at 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

Ballot also offers a more experienced version of the class for students who want to learn more about self-defense during the spring.

Samantha Godby can be contacted at [email protected].