I was accepted to law school in Baton Rouge. I was somewhat okay with possibly attending until I found out that someone who previously attempted to sexually assault me lives not far from there. I'm scared about potentially seeing this person if I attend this school. Finding this out makes me afraid because I've always worried about seeing them again, I just didn't know when. Am I overreacting or do I have legitimate concerns?

Thank you for trusting us with this situation. Your concerns about potentially encountering someone who previously attempted to sexually assault you near your new law school are completely valid. Many survivors experience similar anxiety when faced with the possibility of crossing paths with someone who violated their boundaries or safety. This reaction is a normal response from your body's protective system, not an overreaction.

When considering your law school decision, your sense of safety matters deeply. Many survivors find that creating physical distance from those who harmed them can be an important part of their healing journey. At the same time, your educational and career goals are also significant parts of your life that deserve pursuit.

Feeling worried about potentially seeing this person again doesn't mean you're overreacting; it means you're considering your well-being, which is absolutely important. Trust your instincts—they're an important part of your body's wisdom and self-protection system.

If you decide to attend this law school, there are several approaches that might help manage this situation:

• Reach Out for Support: Consider talking to someone you trust about how you're feeling—whether that's a friend, family member, or counselor. Sharing your fears can provide relief, help you make decisions, and help you process your emotions.

• Contact the Law School: Many universities offer resources for student safety and counseling services. Reaching out to them could provide you with information on how they support students in similar situations and what measures are in place to ensure your safety on campus.

• Develop a Safety Plan: Having a plan in place if you do run into them might give you a sense of control and security. This could include familiarizing yourself with campus security, knowing safe routes, and connecting with others who have had similar experiences on campus.

Many institutions have resources to support survivors, including confidential advocates who can help develop safety plans. Some survivors also find it empowering to learn about legal protections available to them, such as restraining orders, though the appropriateness of such measures varies by situation.

Remember that healing from sexual trauma is not linear, and what feels right for one person may not work for another. Some survivors find that reclaiming spaces that initially trigger fear can be part of their healing process, while others prioritize creating entirely new environments. Both approaches are valid.

Whatever decision you make, it should be one that feels right and safe for you. Consider connecting with a trauma-informed therapist who specializes in sexual violence if you haven't already. They can provide personalized support as you navigate this decision and help develop coping strategies for managing anxiety related to potential encounters.

Take care of yourself, and know that it's okay to seek the support you need. Your concerns deserve to be honored as you make this important life decision. Thank you for trusting us with this.