Graduate Student Organization (GSO)GSO Guide to Student Life
So You're Not Getting Along with Your Advisor
You have a lot invested in your relationship with your advisor. This is the person who has the most power over your work and your time; they are also the most responsible for your training as a scientist. There may well be times when some friction develops. When this happens, there are a number of resources here to help you resolve your conflict.
First, TALK to your advisor if you're not happy!! Your advisor is typically NOT out to get you! He or she wants you to be happy and productive as a graduate student, just as much as you want to be a happy and productive graduate student. Tell them just how you feel. Work TOGETHER with him or her, if at all possible.
If that doesn't work out, you can go to your committee. Committee members are there not just to bust on you during meetings, but to help you along in your training. So ask them for help!
If you have EXHAUSTED these options, and remain at odds with your advisor, additional people you can discuss the problem with include:
It may also help to take some time off. Getting away from the lab, clearing your head, distancing yourself from everybody, can make you feel a LOT better.
Finally, you can change labs. This is a drastic move and last resort measure, but there ARE procedures for this. Sometimes it's the best thing for you to do. |
