If somebody makes advances toward you that you're not comfortable with, turn him down with a firm, unequivocal "no," and call for help if the advances continue. When you go to parties, travel with a group of friends, particularly if you don't know who else will be attending. If you drink, drink moderately to keep your faculties sharp and prevent impaired judgment that can blind you to a dangerous situation. Don't give potential assailants the chance to slip a date rape drug into your drink to render you defenseless. Never leave your drink unattended or drink anything that you didn't open or pour yourself.
The University of Wisconsin at Platteville reports that sexual assaults on campus most frequently occur in parking lots, stairwells and areas with shrubbery that can conceal attackers, so be particularly cautious when traveling through these areas. When you have to study at a campus building after dark, walk home with a friend when possible or call for a campus security escort. When walking at night, never listen to music through ear buds, text while walking or do anything else that will distract you from your surroundings. In your residence hall, always lock your door when you leave, even if you'll only be gone for a couple of minutes, and never open your door for somebody who doesn't have a key.
Utica College warns that cyber stalking is often the prelude to physical stalking and assaults. If you receive unwanted or harassing emails, instant messages or other electronic communications, firmly tell the cyber stalker that you don't want to receive any more communications. If you continue to receive messages, keep a log of the communications and report the stalking to campus authorities. Protect yourself from cyber stalking by never giving out personal information through tweets, emails or social networking pages.
If you're sexually assaulted, get immediate medical attention -- not all injuries are physically apparent, and you'll need to be tested for STDs that the attacker might have transmitted. Resist the impulse to change clothes and shower immediately after the assault, because this removes evidence that law enforcement authorities can use to find the rapist and secure a conviction. Talk to a counselor at a rape crisis center. Rape's emotional and psychological effects can be far more damaging than the physical assault, and the emotional scars can last a lifetime if you don't get caring, professional support.