I am currently a junior in college. A few weeks ago, I was sexually assaulted at a party and I haven’t been the same ever since. I don’t really want to go into detail or file a report, but now I’m facing another issue.
There is a boy in my physics class who I think is, or LOOKS like, the guy who did it. I noticed it the first week back from spring break. I haven’t been able to bring myself to go back to this lecture since.
I wanted to reach out for help because I do not believe I can go back to this class. The drop deadline at my school was two weeks ago, but I would like to petition for a late drop to drop the class. I don’t care about getting a W Grade, I wouldn’t even care about a D or a C, but I just know that I’m not going back to this class and I will get a failing grade if I can’t drop it.
Does anyone know if this will be a valid reason for a late withdrawal from a class at a university? I’m worried that they’re going to make me file a report but the thing is I don’t know the name of the guy who did it, or even if the guy in my physics class is him. All I know is that my mental state is not okay right now and I can’t go back to that room anymore.
If anyone has experience petitioning for a late withdrawal, please let me know. Thank you!
Sorry this happened to you. You need to see what is available at your college. Here are some suggestions.
Have you formally reported the incident? Have you filed charges?
Is this the person who assaulted you or does he just remind you of the person who did?
Have you gone to the counseling center for help dealing with it?
Have you spoken to your parents?
Have you spoken to the Registrar to see if late withdrawal is even an option?
Have you spoken to the professor to see if he/she can help you deal with this?
It depends on the college, but many would be willing to accommodate you. I agree with speaking to the professor, and seeing if they have a way of helping you deal with this. Is there another section of the class you could attend?
I’m sorry you’re going through this. Know that whether you report is 100% up to you. You can report without naming anyone if you wish as well. Do you have any confidential reporting organizations at your school, psychological services, for example? Many schools have avenues for reporting to trusted individuals that do not trigger an investigation but rather will provide more support resources to you.
I don’t think this is something you should try to go through alone. While you were obviously traumatized by the incident as anyone would be, you may not realize the extent to which this has and may continue to affect you. I would suggest you speak with someone in student affairs or wellness/counseling, depending on your school’s resources. I assume they will assist with any course withdrawals that you agree are necessary to facilitate your recovery. I’m sorry that this happened to you - no one should have to go through such a thing. Be strong, but please get the support you deserve and need.