This letter to the editor has been sent by a student who wishes to remain anonymous, detailing their experience with the university’s Title IX office. Letters to the editor can be sent to [email protected], should be between 150-300 words and must be approved by the editor-in-chief.

Trigger warning: sexual harrassment 

When I was a first-year, I was sexually assaulted by another Quinnipiac student. I was young and overwhelmed, and when I found the courage to report what happened, I was directed to the Title IX office. I believed this office existed to support survivors and help them seek justice, but my experience made me question that. 

I was heavily discouraged from going to the police by Title IX Coordinator Patricio Jimenez and instead relied on the university process during a time when I was still struggling to process the trauma. I first reported the assault in May 2024 and was told the hearing would conclude before summer break, yet it did not end until January 2025. During those months, I felt entirely alone. I had to review evidence, prepare my statement and advocate for myself without meaningful guidance or support. 

Returning to campus in the fall was incredibly difficult. I encountered the person who assaulted me almost immediately and continued to see him regularly. Despite expressing that I felt unsafe, no meaningful action was taken, I was told my only options were to endure it or leave school. I couldn’t understand how this school who promised to foster a safe and healthy environment was doing nothing to help me. 

The trial was one of the most degrading experiences of my life. I was forced to recount my experience while he watched and smiled, which felt humiliating and retraumatizing. Throughout the process, I often felt dismissed rather than supported. 

The impact on my mental health and education was severe. I struggled academically despite documented PTSD and professional recommendations, yet I felt my situation was not taken seriously. To this day I wish I never reported it solely because of the way I was treated by Jimenez and the entire Quinnipiac staff involved. The office of Title IX at QU is a disgrace, they offer no support for victims and the school seems to constantly dismiss students.