There are few things more awesome than the energy and excitement generated by sexual attraction to other people. There are also few achievements greater than a teacher providing his or her students with a doorway to pure knowledge and inspiration. Then, there's the law. First, let's talk policy: Columbia doesn't prohibit consensual faculty-student relationships, but it's discouraged since things might quickly turn sour. The university would also expect you to remove yourself from any decisions about the student. Beware though: some departments have stricter policies, so you should check the one in yours. Columbia considers sexual harassment to have occurred when someone subjects another person to "unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature." Repeated unwelcome sexual comments, suggestions, or pressures also may constitute sexual harassment if they make a person's learning or working environment "intimidating, hostile, or offensive." Your true intentions, influence (or lack thereof) on grades, sexual orientation, and teaching experience have little, if nothing, to do with this part of the University's statement and enforcement guidelines (see the latest edition of Facets: Facts About Columbia Essential To Students for the complete sexual harassment definition and Policy Statement). You, and everyone else who at one time or another has longed for more than just a professional relationship with someone who "reports" to you, can hopefully understand how and why these policies were established. Imagine yourself in your student's shoes: how might you feel if your teacher or boss gave you unwanted or uncomfortable special attention -- even if no rewards or punishments were attached?

Now, what can you do with all that excitement and energy? First, Alice says that as long as you can keep them out of your classroom, fantasize away! It sounds like you are a pretty smart and self- reliant guy who can commit to bestowing your knowledge to all of your students equally. Secondly, funnel your extra-curricular feelings and frustrations into an orgasmic desire to be that great teacher. Restate this personal policy before you walk into your classroom. Out of class, your fantasy life is yours to enjoy. A third option could be to avail yourself of other opportunities -- on campus and off -- to meet someone else who sharpens your pencil. Perhaps meeting someone who can satisfy your sexual and/or relationship yearnings -- in an environment that is appropriate and comfortable, such as at a Queer Alliance event or meeting, a GABLES (Gay/Bisexual/Lesbian Employees group) function, or through a variety of organizations that meet at the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community Center in the West Village (212.620.7310) -- will re-direct your libido and allow you to remove the "stud" from your student.