Frequent Asked Questions

When should I schedule a meeting with OAW?

The easy answer is any time you are having ANY kind of problem that you feel is interfering with your studies. Learners can encounter a wide range of problems. These might include:
  • academic appeals and support
  • conflict resolution
  • disability and accommodation
  • physical illness
  • personal or family crises
  • mental health
  • harassment and intimidation
  • trouble with a partner
  • substance abuse
  • legal trouble
  • financial difficulties (awards/bursaries and emergency funding)
  • career advice
  • other issues

When deciding if you want to contact someone in our office, remember that there is no problem too small or insignificant. If it is bothering you, we are here to listen. If left unattended, many issues can grow into bigger and more disruptive problems. It is very common for us to hear, "I didn't think it was a big deal," or, "I thought I could deal with it," or, "I was embarrassed to come to you" when someone is in serious academic trouble. Come to us before problems get out of hand.

* The office is open for meetings and student support all year (including the summer break).

I'm worried about a classmate. What should I do?

Encourage your classmate to reach out to the OAW office, physician and family support program (PFSP), or a trusted mentor. In addition, the OAW office is a confidential space where you can discuss your concerns about a classmate and we can explore potential solutions to optimize support.

I'm feeling drained, tired and not myself. What should I do?

About 25 per cent of students will at some point have problems with mental health, ranging anywhere from burnout to severe depression. Remember that you have a support system around you where you can go for help.

These include your friends, colleagues, student adviser, OAW office or an ancillary service, i.e. student support services through the University of Alberta, and physician and family support program (PFSP) through the Alberta Medical Association. If you need help as to which direction you should go, always feel free to seek the advice of your student adviser or ask the Office of Advocacy & Wellbeing (OAW). We are here to help you at all times.

I'm not sure that I can write my exam this week due to a personal/health crisis. What should I do?

If you are either behind in your studying for personal or health reasons and don't feel up to writing an exam, it is better for you to defer an exam than to attempt to write it and fail. Please come to the OAW office and we can discuss your situation and provide support.