This shocking and random act of violence to Celia Barquin Arozamena incites many emotions: confusion, heartbreak, paranoia, anger.

Celia, an eminent, smart and beautiful girl, called Ames her home for four years. As I enter my fourth year, I can’t help but question my own oversights. I’ve been naïve in my comfort.

As a precaution and out of fear, tonight I called my mom while walking two blocks to my car on Main Street. Something I wouldn’t have considered a year ago.

I don’t feel safe anymore.

Iowa is nationally recognized by the murder of two college girls just months apart. Let me be clear, this is to no fault of the city of Ames, Brooklyn or Iowa State University. The fault lies with the deranged monsters.   

As we grieve these tragedies, we must also take these horrific events as an opportunity to learn. We can’t be naïve anymore and use the excuse “it won’t happen in Ames or Iowa.” It has and could again.

As young students, we must take further precautions because we’ve seen firsthand how easily these murderers can and will attack. Keep your phone on loud for the friend who needs someone to talk to while walking alone at night. Take self-defense classes. Carry pepper spray.

If we don’t learn from these events, then we quickly shift from naïve to ignorant. No one should ever be subject to this anguish, and we can only imagine the heartbreak of those close to the victims.

Prayers for Celia’s family in Spain, having to mourn thousands of miles away. A weeping mom whose daughter lies in a cold metal box because of a monster.

Prayers for her friends, golf team and classmates. Days before she should have been honored at Jack Trice for her tremendous gift and talent. And allow the crowd to be wowed by her infectious smile.

Prayers for the Iowa State and Ames community whose residents now must look over their shoulder. There are sick people in this world, but no one expected it here.

As we mourn this tragedy, we mustn’t succumb to the sadness and anger. Unite. Reflect. Protect. Be aware. Look out for your friends and yourself as our community recovers together.