When we got there, I did see the reptile sitting on a branch, looking very indifferent that I came to visit. After a brief tour of his apartment, he gave me a beer and told me to sit and drink it in his kitchen, claiming he needed to return to the party for a second. I still wasn't worried so I sat down on a counter stool.

After that, I can only describe my memory as fuzzy. Looking back I can recall with limited memory that we had sex later that night. I didn't want to have sex, but I was unable to verbalize it. It felt like I was in a dream. The next morning, I awoke still feeling fuzzy and confused. I quickly gathered my clothes and left.

In the months following that night, I knew something wasn't right. I began to talk to counselors and to trace my steps back to the event. Many of this guy's actions, such as drawing me away from the group, leading me to his place, giving me an open beer with the possibility of date rape drugs in it, may have been planned. I found out later that when he returned to the party, he got my coat, told my friends that I would not be returning and to leave without me. They all thought it was odd, but had too much to drink to think clearly.

It is difficult to understand why a person would intentionally take advantage of someone else. I felt powerless and out of control. I understand now that I was a victim. I don't blame myself anymore for his actions, but I have learned a lot of ways I could have been more cautious.

For example, my friends and I agreed we would never leave each other anywhere again. I should not have let myself be isolated from the group with someone I didn't know.

Also, I should not have been drinking. Remember that drugs and alcohol impair your decision making. You must be totally alert in any situation.

You shouldn't fear the possibility of rape or harm, but rather be alert to realize it could happen to you. This will hopefully prevent you from being naïve, as I was.

If you have been a victim of such a crime as I have, please know that there is help. I urge you to not be ashamed or feel guilty. If you haven't already, the first step is to tell a trusted parent, teacher, or adult that can direct you to the help you need.