If you want to be safe from attackers get a gun. It doesn’t give you concussions and it’s far more effective than kickboxing at protecting you.
I should take a step back. Generally speaking, do what you can to avoid fights. Don’t duel with other men. Use other methods to establish status.
Outside of dueling, there is being jumped. ie fights you don’t consent to. For those, just carry some pepper spray, or a stun gun, or an actual gun. Don’t rely on martial arts to protect you from people who fight you without your consent. This is why the army carries guns: they’re the most effective way to get the upper hand when someone else is trying to hurt you.
Definitely do your kickboxing classes for the cardio. If you want to excel in college and in your career you’re going to need to work out.
Just don’t confuse yourself about it being a good strategy for staying safe.