Having scraped together my BFA and begun life after RISD, I though that for the most part my own traumas would be a thing of the past. It is devastating to learn that I am far from being alone in my experiences with RISD's staff in regards to mental health and disciplinary action. I have my own personal and painful story involving the same people only one year prior. This needs to be addressed. It is not isolated.
To those questioning RISD as a school in all other respects: It truly is an amazing place, the faculty and students are incredible and I am honored to have worked in their presence.
MICA's got your back
Why's this important to me? Because I've gone through similar experiences. I had to sit and watch one of my best friends break down every week because the school thought she was too depressed to stay on campus when all she needed was someone to talk to so she could do her best in school and move on in her life. She is such a bright person, and the school kicked her to the curb because they couldn't handle her. They refused to help me when I was sick, assured me I was pregnant when I have never been sexually active AND was on birth control. Told me they'd work everything out, medical leave wasn't necessary, and then told me I wasn't welcome back because of my condition. They forced me into an ambulance, even after I refused treatment, and I was held at the hospital for hours without contact to my family. I kept asking for them to tell my mom what was going on because you know parents usually like to know when their child is in the hospital. Why is this important? Because the school is in the wrong and they won't own up to their mistakes. Just because they're some big name school full of money doens't mean they should be able to get away with this, it doesn't mean they get to sweep it all under the rug, it doesn't even mean they get to pay out people to keep silent. No. Let the world know what';s going on. We go to school to get an education and so we can contribute to this world and make something of ourselves. Shitty faculty and staff shouldn't stop us from achieving what we want to be. They say they care. Words are just words. Show me some fucking action.
I am so sorry for this ordeal you have been through. I hope justice is served and that these individuals are punished for the risk they have put you through. The MICA students are outraged and you have our support.
Like churches, college campuses should not be microcosms exempt from the law - and the safety of their students should be their FIRST priority, rather than statistics and PR
When you go to someone for help, you should expect help, not assault, punishment, and violation of rights.