What Students Need To Know About Rape

Are college students at risk for sexual assault?

College students are in one of the most vulnerable age groups for sexual assault. [More Statistics]

What is the bigger danger, stranger rape or acquaintance rape?

Most college students who are sexually assaulted are victimized by someone they know. Although stranger rapes occur, acquaintance rape is by far the more prevalent form of sexual violence among college students.

What is "campus rape?"

Sexual assaults that occur on college campuses (e.g., in residence halls, libraries, parking lots, walkways) and other locations that are considered to be part of the campus community (e.g., cooperative housing, fraternities, and sororities) are often referred to as "campus rapes."

Is there a connection between the use of alcohol and sexual assault?

A majority of the sexual assaults experienced by college students occur in situations involving drinking by the victim, the assailant, or both.

Who is responsible for a sexual assault if both of the involved parties have been drinking?

Being drunk is not an excuse for committing any criminal act, including a sexual assault. If a man has sex with a woman when she is prevented from resisting by the effects of alcohol or other drugs, the man can be charged with rape or sexual assault if he knew or reasonably should have known that the woman was mentally or physically incapacitated.

Will talking about what happened be helpful?

Talking about the assault with people who are supportive and understanding can be very helpful. This is a way to begin the process of recovery. It can be especially helpful to talk with a trained counselor at CAPS or advocate who understands the trauma of rape and knows how to assist survivors.

Where can I go for help?

On Penn Campus, there are many places to which you can turn for help. Penn offera assistance for sexual assault victims through the CAPS, Student Health Service, Women's Center, Special Services, and the LGBT Center.

How can I get medical care after a sexual assault?

It is very important to have a specialized medical examination after a sexual assault, even if you think you do not have any physical injuries. You may have injuries of which you are not aware. It is also helpful to discuss with a doctor or nurse the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and/or pregnancy resulting from a sexual assault and to get information on ways to deal with these risks.

Contact Student Health Services 215-349-8246, Campus Police 215-898-7297 or from a campus phone, dial 511. If you think you are too sick to walk to Student Health, you should call us at 215-349-8246. The triage nurse will review your symptoms and need for emergency transportation. If appropriate, she will then notify Campus Police to bring you to Student Health.

What are my legal options if I was sexually assaulted by another student?

• You can report the assault to the police and pursue criminal charges against the assailant. If you make a police report, you may be eligible for victim compensation benefits through the state's crime victim compensation program. In many states, these benefits include reimbursement for medical care and counseling expenses related to the assault. You should consult with a rape crisis center, another victim assistance agency, or an attorney regarding victim compensation benefits in your state.
• You can report the assault to Police Services. After an investigation, Penn may decide to hold a campus disciplinary hearing to determine whether to take disciplinary action against the offender. Disciplinary actions imposed by the college may include suspension or expulsion.
• You also may be able to file a civil suit in which you sue the assailant or a third party to recover a monetary award for the injuries you have suffered.