The past two days have felt like a blur. I study and attend my classes to keep my mind busy. I haven’t slept much, and I have probably eaten less. I wanted to take a pause from my colored notes and chemistry rants to talk about something that has been bothering me for the past few days because I feel like it’s an important topic to discuss, and perhaps there’s someone who is going through the same problem and will benefit from my wisdom.
What Do You Do When a Professor Sexually Harasses You?
Whether it’s a remark about your outfit that seemed inappropriate or you feel like you’, re getting “special attention”, any encounter with a professor that makes you uncomfortable should not be ignored. Remember that you are at this institution to gain an education and explore the things that excite you and if somebody is making you feel anxious, nervous, or like you can’t perform in your classes, please find people to help you. Here are some things to keep in mind if this is something you’re faced with, or you know a friend having the same problem:
1. Know it is not your fault
Say it a little louder for the people in the back. Unwelcome advances from anyone, are exactly what they sound like: unwelcome. You shouldn’t sit there and pick yourself apart for wearing a top that was a little tight or visiting office hours often. Especially if you’ve made it clear with your body language or by expressing it verbally, it is in no way your fault. Don’t blame yourself.
2. Don’t silence yourself because you’re afraid of what’ll happen to them
This is important. This is something that I struggled with for so long until someone put it into perspective for me. These people are adults, they should know right from wrong. Not only that, but it’s very likely that they have even been through sexual misconduct training with their employer. Being concerned with their employment status or their relationships at home is not beneficial because they have to deal with the repercussions of their actions.
3. Know that there are people in place to help you
Whether it be a human resources person or a trusted professor/staff member, there are guidelines in place for how situations like these should be handled. I don’t know how it is in other countries, but in America (please tell me if I’m giving bad information here), almost all university personnel are mandatory reporters and are required to report instances of sexual misconduct. If you tell someone and they refuse to help you or you feel as though you aren’t getting the help you deserve, find someone else. Go to the dean of your college, an employer, an advisor, the dean of students even. There are people at your institution who know what to do and will help you.
If you reported an incident and you’re feeling anxious, it’s okay. It’s normal to have mixed feelings about something this serious. Have pride in yourself for standing up for yourself. If you didn’t feel comfortable to say something, that’s okay too. Take pride in the fact that you know in your heart that what they’re doing is wrong and you aren’t under their spell. If you’re on the fence about saying something but you haven’t decided, take pride in the fact that you’re considering taking this courageous next step. Regardless of what you decide, know that you will find people who validate your decision and support you. You matter and that is what you should keep in mind.
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