After presenting at university and awaiting feedback from her professor, one student was taken aback when she received an email that left her feeling demeaned.
Ebbie Hicks, a student at the University of Memphis, USA, shared on TikTok that shortly after her presentation, she received unsolicited and inappropriate feedback from her professor about her attire, suggesting it could provoke inappropriate thoughts.
Ebbie expressed discomfort with the professor’s remarks, which extended to other young women in the class.
Her 75-year-old psychology professor commented on her choice of clothing, particularly a skirt, implying it might stimulate fantasies. In a video, she displayed a screenshot of the email, highlighting the section that shocked her.
The professor wrote, “While I appreciated your attire for the presentation, the short skirt you chose might divert attention from your content. Fortunately, you were seated for most of it, mitigating any distractions. But bear in mind, clothing that encourages fantasy can detract from your message.”
Ebbie objected not only to the inappropriateness of the comment but also to the implied blame placed on her for any distractions her clothing might cause.
“All areas were covered,” she emphasized.
She clarified that there’s no dress code for presentations and therefore no basis for the professor’s comment, aside from its inappropriateness for class, which she disagreed with.
In a subsequent video, Ebbie showcased the outfit she wore—a loose jumper, shorts with opaque tights, and boots—arguing it was modest and appropriate.
“This isn’t the first time he’s done this,” she disclosed.
Ebbie recounted similar comments made to other female classmates. One wore a t-shirt and jeans, and the professor suggested her tight shirt might distract male classmates.
Ebbie promptly forwarded the email to the head of the psychology department and received assurance that the message was concerning and would be addressed.
Despite this, Ebbie expressed skepticism about the department’s ability to handle the situation appropriately.