Nowadays, it isn't uncommon for girls to feel the need to call someone when walking home alone in the dark. Females are constantly being warned of not wearing headphones and not staring down into our phones. Instead of building up strength and confidence, the idea of fear is instilled in society as a whole.

There have been some that have stepped up and are moving forward to strengthen women. Places like 9Rounds are becoming more popular and drawing in not only those interested in getting fit, but learning new skills for self-defense. Independent organizations such as sororities and other small companies are catching on to the trend and holding events for women of different ages to become more aware and educated.

With the increased interest of protecting oneself, hopefully, the fear can be less and less and the confidence can grow stronger. In today's society if I could individually start influencing changes, being unafraid to walk home at night would be one of the first. I wish to see more safety in larger cities. A change in society where we see more people help those in need so they don't need to do so themselves, in an unsafe manner.

In the small college town I currently live in, crime isn't a huge issue. Yet, there are safety precautions in every way. People are encouraged to never walk alone and be aware of all surroundings. Well, let me tell you something. I still do my best to follow all precautions. However, sometimes timing is hard and you find yourself walking home from studying. In those times though, I'm not the one who is nervous anymore. Although I will have someone ready to call if necessary, if anyone has plans to get in my way on my walk home, they should be nervous.

My confidence is boosted from learning the simplest self-defense moves and safety actions and slowly but surely, I hope the confidence starts spreading state and countrywide.

I encourage all those who are nervous about walking alone at night or afraid to be home alone to take a few self-aware and defense classes.

If you're a girl and someone says you fight like a girl. Take it as a compliment. You are strong and breaking the old stereotypes.