Lady Gaga's new music video, "Till it Happens to You" gives attention to an important issue that is often overlooked in today's society: sexual assault.

Sexual assault is very common, especially on a college campus and this subject is something that should be talked about rather than discussed behind closed doors.

As a Junior in college, I have had too many friends confide in me about times where they were uncomfortable in a sexual situation. There are many of both of my male and female friends have been taken advantage sexually; and the statistic continues to grow.

According to the numbers, 1 in 4 college women will be a victim of sexual assault during their college years. Also, it is reported that 80 percent of sexual assaults are committed by a friend or acquaintance (Sarah Lawrence College).

Lady Gaga tastefully represented her message against sexual assault in an eye-opening video featuring different story lines and situations, that far too many people find themselves in during college. These situations are sadly an accurate representation of what really happens on college campuses all over the world on a day-to-day basis.

It is important to stay aware of your surroundings while in school, but it is also important to remember that if anything does happen to you, it is not your fault. I have witnessed many individuals feel as if they are worthless because of the events that have happened to them in the past. No one should feel this way about themselves, especially if they were put in a difficult or dangerous situation.

I believe everyone should have the opportunity to watch Lady Gaga's new music video in order to be educated on the upsetting world of sexual assault. It rings true that no one really understands certain situations until they go through them themselves. This is why it is important to be there for one another when situations like this happen. Although it is hard to understand what a certain person is going through, it is necessary to show loved ones your love and compassion. Remember that everyone has worth. Everyone has value; and if someone takes advantage of you, you will get better and find happiness once again.