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No answer to a question based on a false premise: there is <em>no</em> pressure. Sure, maybe asks someone for a date and is told, “Sorry, I don’t hit from that side of the plate.” People ask and get turned down at co-ed colleges, too, swear to God…I can personally attest to that! In terms of unwanted sexual advances and distinguished from “pressure” (presumably to become lesbian), there’s a lot more at alcohol-fueled co-ed colleges by a long shot…and I mean a very long shot. “Respect for women” is something taken seriously at Smith, including the right to say “No.”</p>
<p>Lesbianism is hardly an “obsession” on campus; it just happens to be a rare place where women who are gay or bi can be “out” and be themselves without having to keep a low profile. And if some are left a little giddy and exhilarated about this kind of freedom, I understand. It’s a little like being with other literary geeks at a science fiction convention.</p>