While we hope your graduate career goes smoothly, we recognize that complicated situations can develop.
When navigating academic conflicts, there are a number of resources who can be helpful to consult. Many concerns can be resolved through conversations with individuals closest to the situation, such as the adviser or other faculty members. The Director of Graduate Studies in your program is an excellent resource to understand program expectations and practices, advise on options and help resolve issues.
Graduate College staff are experienced with helping navigate academic conflicts or problems that may arise and identifying options or resources, and we are always happy to meet with you. Students can contact us for a variety of matters, including conflict with an adviser, questions about academic policies or procedures, considering leaving or switching academic programs or adviser, and many others. If you would like assistance with problem solving, contact gradsuccess@illinois.edu to schedule a meeting.
Other campus resources are available to address specific types of concerns. These include:
Connie Frank CARE Center
The Connie Frank CARE Center provides consultation, resources and referrals that are designed to address students' needs and remove barriers to their success. The Emergency Dean offers assistance to students and their families in emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Contact the office at HELPdean@illinois.edu or call (217) 333-0050.
Office for Student Conflict Resolution
The Office for Student Conflict Resolution offers a wide range of services for students involved in disputes or interpersonal conflicts, or those who are experiencing harassment, charges of violation of the student conduct code, or similar problems. The services include student mediation services, referral services, and student discipline.
Student Legal Services
Students who have paid the Service Fee may obtain assistance from Student Legal Service attorneys. The office handles a range of matters including traffic offenses, landlord-tenant disputes, misdemeanors, and consumer disputes. The attorneys will not handle cases involving one student against another, or a student against the University or the state of Illinois, or felony cases. See the Student Legal Services Office website for more information.