Your Countermeasures when a Professor Hits on You

A college professor is only human and sometimes his ethical and moral conscience fall by the wayside; these values are not recognized because of some need that he may have to fulfill. It has always been a moral and ethical practice not to "hit" on students, as they are placed under the mantle of the professor's guidance and care. But there are instances in which professors go beyond what is moral and take a different interest in their students. What should you do if this happens to you?

Since majority of college students are considered adults already, you should have a candid talk with him. Tell him frankly that his actions are inappropriate and are making you uncomfortable. Make him understand that if he doesn't stop, then you don't have any alternative but to go to higher authorities to report him, to those who have the power to control him.

If he threatens you with failure in his subject, then don't dilly dally. Prepare a written statement report him to the dean or a school official concerned about student affairs. Threatening you denotes that he has no plans of stopping his current behavior. You could also enlist the help of your parents especially if you're a minor. Calling your parents' attention to the problem would indicate you don't want any monkey business.

If he was just testing the waters, then he will definitely put a stop to his unwelcome actions, once you talk to him. Do not be afraid to be bold and be straightforward because he has no control over you; he is apparently not behaving professionally like he should be. You have the trump card and you can very well make him lose his job if he persists on harassing you.

There are some situations though, when true love occurs between a graduating student and a professor. In these instances, the professor has to wait for the student to graduate before he could have an affair with her or even commence courtship. A relationship of two unattached, adult professionals, who would opt to pursue one, is perfectly acceptable in any society.

Whatever decision you make, you should not be afraid to insist on your rights as a decent human being; and that you have the right to demand decent behavior from a mentor like your professor; that his authority over you does not excuse him for indecent or lewd behavior. Know your rights as a student and don't be afraid to stand up for them. When students do nothing in such circumstances, there would be many victims in the future, who would undergo the same unpleasant experience, so if you're a victim, act now.