Dear Courtney,

The progression towards intimacy, cannot be quantified in the context of time; it is truly timeless. It may only take a heart beat for a couple, as their eyes meet for the first time. For others, it may take days, weeks, months or even years.

It is never a good idea to acquiesce to sex for any reason. It is a trap, young, inexperienced women fall into. They are not ready for sex. Yet, they acquiesce to sex out of fear of losing their partner, resulting in a loss of self respect, as well as a loss of respect of their partner.

Delaying sex, out of fear of being characterized a "slut", is also not constructive. Engaging in sex requires trust, and entails a substantial amount of emotional risk. If you truly believe a guy would characterize you, or any woman, a slut, than you need to move on. He doesn't deserve you, or anyone else.

Also, recognize dating is not always formal. Fraternizing with a classmate, after class over a period of a couple of months could easily result in a sexual encounter, i.e., provided the requisite mutual attraction is present.

In summary, you will know when the time is right, just like you know when you are ready to sleep, or ready to have a meal; it will be an emotional epiphany. There is never a place for acquiescence or pro forma delay.

Larry