DROP-INS with the STUDENT OMBUDS
Thurs. Oct. 2, 11:45a-1:15p, Usdan 110
Wed. Oct. 8, 11:45a-1:15p, Usdan 110
Mon. Oct. 13, 11:45a-1:15p, Usdan 110
Wed. Oct. 22, 11:45a-1:15p, Usdan 114
Tues. Oct. 28, 11:45a-1:15p, Usdan 110
Here are some REAL ISSUES the Student Ombuds have helped other students with:
- They did a lot of work on a project, but the supervisor did not include them as an author on a published project report. However, they included other students. How can they talk about this without causing problems in their job?
- A professor never calls on them in class but regularly calls on other students. Participation is a major part of the grade, and they are worried about getting a low score. How can they bring up their concern with the professor? What can they do if nothing changes?
- Their housemate is also a leader in an org they both belong to. They don’t agree with a decision this person made in the org, and it’s causing tension in the house and their friend group. How can they work through this?
- They feel a few of the comments their coach has made at practice might be microaggressions. They aren’t sure what to think, but they know they feel uncomfortable. What can they do?
- Their professor’s solutions to the student’s accommodations for assignments and exams create a different set of challenges, but the professor says no other solutions are possible. Are they stuck with this, or is there help available to figure out another arrangement?
MORE ABOUT THE STUDENT OMBUDS:
The Student Ombuds (link) program at Wesleyan is a peer support initiative inspired and informed by student voices.
Each Ombud serves as a neutral and impartial resource focused on empowering students considering how best to navigate interpersonal challenges, especially in situations where there are power and positionality differences. The Ombuds can support students who are experiencing or observing communication breakdown, unfair treatment, tension or other challenging interpersonal matters, particularly when the other party is in a position of power in relation to the student (e.g., a professor, coach, or supervisor).
For example the Student Ombuds:
- Provide insight on how to start and manage a challenging conversation with a professor
- Serve as thought partners for students working through an issue with a coach or trainer
- Share information and tools on how to approach resolving a conflict with an employment supervisor
- Hold a safe and supportive conversational space, simply listening and serving as an impartial sounding board
- Explain and demystify formal reporting/complaint structures and campus support resources
- Communicate any patterns of concern to university leadership while maintaining student anonymity
The Student Ombuds are also available to deliver presentations and workshops on constructive communication, conflict navigation, and more!
Learn more about the Student Ombuds and/or make an appointment by:
- Visiting our webpage (link)
- Following us on Instagram @wes_ombuds
- Emailing studentombud@wesleyan.edu