Hidden behind the smiles and laughter among friends is fear. Many are paying more attention to safety.
"We are walking in groups together day, night," said Allison Miller "It just kind of scares me."
"My parents are pretty freaked out," said Mary Bachman. "I got an email telling me to do all these safety precautions. Making sure I was aware and not going places by myself"
To ease fears, police are increasing their presence. Officials also added one more campus security guard.
"That's in part to offer more opportunity for more coverage [for students] who want to request an escort service from them," said Bill Born, dean of students and vice president of student life.
Police are looking for a white male with a medium build in his mid-twenties. The suspect has dirty-blonde hair and a longer nose. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored jacket and black gloves.
It's not the first time a sexual assault was reported. The last was reported in 2007. For many of the freshman and sophomores, this is new territory.
"My mom called me last night worried about it," said Morgan Broderick.
"It's shocking, but everyone is pulling together," said Jon Hershberger.
Most importantly, they are aware and taking steps to keep each other safe.
The campus also promises to keep the lines of communication open with updates. Students received their first report of the alleged attack around 3 a.m. Tuesday.
