Advocating for yourself means identifying your challenges, communicating your needs, and seeking help when you require it. Effective self-advocating can help you overcome barriers to your learning and growth.
- In class, ask questions, participate in discussions, and seek clarification on assignments.
- Outside of class, take advantage of campus resources like office hours, advising, tutoring, and counseling services.
Pro tip: Building the communication skills needed to effectively advocate for yourself not only helps you succeed academically, but also prepares you for life beyond college. Effective self-advocates use clear concise communication with an assertive, not aggressive, style. Often people find it helpful to practice what you are going to say beforehand. Staff in the Student Conflict Resolution Center can help!
Resources
Academic Advising can provide information on policies, procedures, and resources.
Disability Resource Center staff work with students, faculty/instructors, staff, and guests with documented disabilities to facilitate access on an individualized, case-by-case basis. This interactive process takes time and requires collaboration among students, faculty, and staff.
First-Gen Center can help you navigate issues you may have by answering questions, offering support, and providing referrals.
Student Conflict Resolution Center staff work with students to resolve university-based problems and concerns. Staff provide confidential, impartial, and informal options for resolving conflicts in a fair manner.
Student Advocates provide assistance to students who have been accused of violating the Student Conduct Code or other academic conduct policies. Advocates can also provide support for students going through appeal or formal academic grievance processes.