Balikpapan – A university is not only a place to gain knowledge but also a space to grow, connect, and learn to understand one another. However, some students still find it difficult to feel comfortable in their academic environment due to unpleasant behavior from their peers. This phenomenon, known as bullying, can happen anywhere including within university life.

Bullying refers to any act that makes a person feel intimidated, humiliated, or hurt, whether physically, verbally, or psychologically. In a campus context, bullying does not always take the form of physical violence. It can appear through negative comments, ridicule, exclusion, gossip, or online harassment (cyberbullying). All these behaviors have the potential to cause serious emotional distress to the victim.

Generally, bullying is any act of repeatedly hurting or intimidating someone directly or indirectly  causing them to feel fear, anxiety, or pressure. On campus, this can include verbal or social bullying, such as mocking others, posting hurtful comments online, spreading rumors, or deliberately isolating someone from their social circle. Although these actions may seem minor, they can leave lasting emotional scars.

Why does this happen? The causes are varied. Differences in background, ways of thinking, or academic pressure can create tension between individuals. In many cases, perpetrators engage in bullying because they are unable to manage stress, emotions, or jealousy, and express these feelings in harmful ways. Yet, a university should be a place of mutual support, not hostility.

The impact of bullying can be severe. Victims often experience anxiety, stress, declining academic performance, and social withdrawal. In extreme cases, they may feel worthless and suffer from serious mental health problems. Therefore, it is crucial for the entire academic community to be more aware and empathetic toward one another.

There are several signs that a student may be experiencing bullying. They might suddenly withdraw from social activities, appear sad or anxious, lose motivation, have trouble sleeping, or experience weight loss. When we see someone showing these signs, do not ignore them. Be a friend who listens without judgment small acts of empathy can make a big difference for someone struggling in silence.

Preventing bullying can start with simple actions. We can foster empathy and respect for differences, stop spreading gossip, refuse to join in mockery, and speak up when witnessing harmful behavior. A safe and inclusive campus is not only the institution’s responsibilityit belongs to all students who are part of it.

Let us work together to build a campus culture of empathy, respect, and mutual support. A positive and nurturing academic environment can only grow when every individual takes part in protecting one another and spreading kindness.

“As human beings, we must care for and respect each other. Let’s create a safe, comfortable, and bullying-free campus.”  Suni Sanjaya, S.Psi (Student Affairs Team Institut Teknologi Kalimantan)