Permanent link for Beyond "Yes": Understanding Consent, Communication, and Autonomy in College Life on March 25, 2026

Consent has long been a topic of debate, with its definition evolving over time as social norms and understandings of relationships change. While perspectives may differ on how consent should be defined, one principle remains clear: consent is essential for building healthy relationships with others and maintaining respect for ourselves. On college campuses, where many young adults are navigating independence, relationships, and identity, understanding and practicing consent becomes especially important.

Research published in the Journal of Health Communication: International Perspectives suggests that communication about consent can be approached similarly to other health behaviors—most effectively when expectations and definitions are clear. As noted in the article, “Many colleges adopted an affirmative consent standard in their university procedures and educational efforts, such that for a sexual encounter to be considered consensual, it must include explicit, voluntary, and conscious agreement to engage in sexual activity by all parties involved” (Ortiz, 2019). This affirmative consent model shifts the focus toward active, ongoing communication between partners.

Over the past 20 years, colleges and universities have increasingly implemented initiatives to address consent through student resources, education programs, and campus policies. These efforts have become even more necessary as the rise of internet usage and social media continues to shape modern relationships and influence how young adults form and understand sexual partnerships.

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), consent extends beyond sexual relationships and plays a key role in personal autonomy and self-awareness. Practicing consent empowers individuals to listen to their bodies, establish personal boundaries, and communicate those boundaries clearly with others. Because everyone has different comfort levels and experiences, fostering open-mindedness and respect for both our own boundaries and those of others is essential to creating meaningful, safe, and respectful relationships.

 

Additional definition of consent - Office of Civil Rights and Title IX GVSU

Categories: sexual health
Posted by Heather Alberda on Permanent link for Beyond "Yes": Understanding Consent, Communication, and Autonomy in College Life on March 25, 2026.

Permanent link for STI Testing: A Smart (And Normal!) Choice for Your Sexual Health on April 1, 2025

Taking Charge of your Sexual Health 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common part of sexual health, yet stigma and misconceptions still prevent many people from getting tested regularly. But when it comes to taking care of your health, regular STI testing is just as important as an annual physical, a dental check-up, or staying up to date on vaccines. STI testing is a normal and essential part of maintaining overall well-being—especially for college students who are sexually active. This STI Awareness Month, prioritize your sexual health and get yourself tested! 

Why Testing Regularly is a Smart Choice 

Many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV, can be asymptomatic for months or even years. This means someone can have an STI without realizing it, potentially putting themselves and their partners at risk. Early detection through testing not only protects your health but also prevents unknowingly passing an infection to a partner. 

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that young adults aged 15–24 account for nearly half of all new STI cases in the U.S. This statistic underscores the importance of proactive testing, especially for college students who may be engaging in new or multiple sexual relationships. 

Stigmas and Misconceptions Around STI Testing 

One of the biggest barriers to STI testing is the stigma attached to it. Many people associate STIs with promiscuity, poor hygiene, or irresponsibility—while STIs are simply infections, just like the flu or a cold, and can affect anyone who is sexually active. 

Common misconceptions include: 

• “I would know if I had an STI.” Many infections do not show symptoms, which is why routine testing is essential. 

• “I’m in a committed relationship, so I don’t need to get tested.” Even in monogamous relationships, testing is important, as some STIs can remain dormant for long periods. 

• “Getting tested means, I must have done something wrong.” Testing is a sign of responsibility and self-care, not a reflection of one’s character. 

• “I’m on birth control, so I’m protected.” While condoms can help to prevent STIs, they are not always 100% effective. Other birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, and IUD do not protect against STIs and HIV. 

Normalizing STI Testing as a regular part of health check-ups helps to combat the stigma, advance sexual health, and stop the spread of STIs!  

How Often Should You Get Tested? 

The CDC recommends that sexually active individuals follow these general guidelines: 

• Everyone ages 13 to 64 years should be tested at least once for HIV. 

• At least once a year for chlamydia and gonorrhea if you are under 25. 

• Before entering a new sexual relationship to ensure both partners are informed. 

• More frequently if you have multiple partners or engage in higher-risk sexual behaviors. 

Other key facts about testing:  

• All STIs, even HIV, are treatable and most are curable. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can protect your health and partners! 

• STI tests are quick, simple, and usually painless. Most STI tests consist of a urine test, cheek swab, blood test, or swab of sores. 

• Not all medical checkups include STI testing. Unless you ask to be tested, you cannot assume you have been. Ask your medical provider which STIs you should be tested for. 

• Talk to your partner about when you were last tested and suggest getting tested together. And if you have an STI, tell your partner. These conversations may seem hard to have, but open communication with your partner is essential to staying healthy and stopping the spread of STIs. These conversations may also bring you closer together. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation. 

On-Campus STI Testing  

There is no reason for STI testing to feel awkward or stressful. GVSU’s Center for Health and Well-being offers free, confidential STI testing and resources to help you feel comfortable and stay informed. This STI Awareness Month, take the step to prioritize your sexual health by stopping by one of our STI testing locations. It’s a small step that leads to a healthier you! 

On-campus testing is:  

• Walk-in testing. No appointment necessary  

• Free and confidential  

• Urine sample or vaginal swab for chlamydia or gonorrhea. No HIV testing. 

• Provided by the Ottawa and Kent County Depts. of Public Health Clinical Staff 

Allendale Campus  

• 2nd Wednesday of each month September-April 

• Holton-Hooker Living Center Multipurpose Room, 3:00-7:30pm 

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025 

Health Campus, Downtown Grand Rapids  

• 560 DCIH, 1:00-4:00pm  

• April 1st 

• April 15th  

• April 29th  

Read more about on-campus STI testing and resources here. 

Other testing locations: You can find confidential testing near you that is free or low cost by going to the Get Yourself Tested website. 

 

Categories: sexual health
Posted on Permanent link for STI Testing: A Smart (And Normal!) Choice for Your Sexual Health on April 1, 2025.