Imagine, starting your daily routine as you normally would. It's a peaceful morning, your headphones are in as well as a great attitude to start the day. When all of a sudden a complete stranger ask you a multitude of disturbing questions, "Are you looking for anything?" or "Are you a virgin?" Yes, this happened to me on a bus to school. Minding my own business as this man rubs my leg, while I'm frozen from shock, and wondering if anyone would help me. I knew in that moment I was in danger. Even with the glances of others, no one would do anything. Even if I got up to sit at the front of the bus he would follow me. Why did I not move? This was probably due to the fact that I have a distaste for conflict as well as creating it.

I've never been in this kind of situation. Luckily next stop was my savior, but unfortunately school wasn't because he will always be around to make woman or men feel uncomfortable. Scratch that, not uncomfortable, this was sexual harassment. I let this man commit sexual harassment and I didn't do anything about it because I was scared. I'm regretting my decision for not saying anything because even after a semester passed, he is now in the same class as me. I'm still dealing with sexual harassment.

However, it's time for men and women to take action and not sit idly by while letting heinous acts make us feel any less of a person. Everyone deserves respect, and the same goes for giving it. Here are ways to help prevent further harassment.

1. Say Something

Whether it's screaming at the top of your lungs, or telling someone around you, "They are sexually harassing me" will evidentially get the attention of others and make that person leave the scene. Because every situation is different, there is no perfect response. Your safety comes first, don't worry about making a public disturbance.

2. Share your Story

Report what had happened to you, whether you can give a name or a face. It's important to tell someone because you will never know if he/she will find you again. I learned the hard way, after being stalked and approached multiple times, this is something so important because not telling anyone will make you more in danger than ever before.

3. Be Smart, Be Safe

Be firm and confront that person with caution, make it know you don't like what they're doing to you. Engage when you need to. For instance, if they proceed to talk or touch you, say no. Look them straight in the eyes and denounce their behavior. Once you've said your peace, keep it moving. Leave as soon as possible.

4. Stay within Eye Sight

Keep yourself in the view of others, never be alone. It's important to stay within a crowd of more students. People are prone to respond to distress. Make it known to a group and stay with them. Stay calm and even if given, keep your cellphone in hand ready to contact the authorities.