Get Help

When things go wrong

Here’s some general advice on how to respond if you find yourself with a problem affecting your time at University.

1. Stay calm, and get professional advice first

You could make matters worse by responding to an important notification from the University before getting advice. Responding early does not influence the University to decide in your favour.

2. Be respectful

When communicating with staff in your Faculty or the University always treat them with courtesy and respect. In most cases staff are trying to be helpful.

3. Deal with problems early

Your problem may get worse if you ignore it. Get advice early and try to deal with the problem before it becomes unmanageable.

4. Do not disclose information if you do not need to

You are required to be truthful in your dealings with the University, as well as with the government and other external bodies. However, you are not required to volunteer information that might be personal or embarrassing, or which may get you into trouble. If you are not sure what to disclose, get professional advice first.

5. Keep all relevant documentation

Do not delete your emails or other University-related files. Back them up so that you can find them later. In any dispute or University procedure, being able to provide written evidence is important.

6. Know your rights

You are entitled to “procedural fairness” in all of your dealings with the University, the government, and other external bodies. This means that students have rights that are written into University policies and procedures, as well as under federal and state laws