Since the question raises relevant issues in academia such as the "mentor-apprenticeship model", politics, and ethics, the question can be interpreted not as being specific to an institution, but as "is it allowable, in general and why?

" I feel it is well within the scope of an acceptable question.

She started going to his office hours to ask questions about his research.

But soon after, the conversations got more personal.

I think he liked the attention.” Eventually, the TA asked her if she would write a recommendation letter for an award he was applying to, and if she wanted to be his assistant over the summer for his research.

“He was nice to me even though I think he knew I was flirting.I don't see any sign that this was frowned upon from other department professors.student, so there is no present power dynamic, conflict of interest or anything like that.For example, suppose the student has previously taken a class from the professor but has no plans for further academic contact.What other factors could help determine whether a relationship would be allowed or considered appropriate?An individual may not initiate or participate in institutional decisions involving a direct benefit or penalty to someone with whom that individual has had a sexual relationship.Relationships such as those between supervisors and their subordinate employees are inherently asymmetric.