All relationships involve some kind of conflict at different points in time, but there are types of conflict and situations that require additional support or intervention to resolve. We understand that relationships with academic peers can be complicated and we want to provide the support you need to facilitate positive, productive relationships with your academic peers.
Our goal is to help facilitate positive, supportive, and productive relationships in your academic life. There are many different people who can provide guidance and advice about your options.
You can contact the following offices to get advice or have a confidential conversation. If you are not sure what office is right for you, or where to start, we suggest you contact staff at CGMS or UTGSU to discuss your situation. They can help you determine the best path forward for you.
- Centre for Graduate Mentorship and Supervision (CGMS) – You can talk to staff at the Centre for Mentorship and Supervision at any point about any concern or issue. CGMS can help you talk about your experience or concern, advise you on your options, and provide direction for next steps.
- Your Graduate Unit/Faculty Registrar Office – You can talk to the graduate coordinator, chair or director of the graduate unit or your Registrar. These members of the graduate unit or Faculty Office may have a more nuanced understanding of the situation, may be able to provide more specific advice, or may be able to identify an effective solution based on the situation. You are always able to request that conversations with these individuals remains confidential.
- Equity Offices – The University of Toronto has specialized Equity Offices that advance the University’s commitment to equity and excellence and meet the complex needs of our tri-campus community. If you need support, we encourage you to connect with our subject matter experts for guidance and advice. We can discuss specific situations and can assist you to prepare your concerns/complaints and support you through the process.
- Health and Wellness Peer Support – With a single click, chat with a trained University of Toronto student peer about whatever is on your mind, right away. Support is offered in a one-on-one, drop-in, non-judgemental, confidential and accessible virtual space.
- Office of the Ombudsperson – As part of the University’s commitment to ensuring that the rights of its individual members are protected, the University Ombudsperson is devoted to ensuring procedural fairness and just and reasonable outcomes. Matters are dealt with in strict confidence and will not be discussed with anyone without your written approval. However, please note that the Ombudsperson cannot start an investigation until all other University avenues have been exhausted.
- School of Graduate Studies – If you are experiencing conflict or challenges with your academic peers, you can talk to the Vice-Dean Students to get confidential advice on conflict, harassment, or other concerns. You can also discuss informal intervention and formal appeal processes.
- University of Toronto Graduate Students’ Union – The UTGSU provides its members with confidential advocacy services. If you are experiencing academic and/or administrative difficulties, including problems with your supervisor, department, or the university, the GSU can assist you with advice, information and representation. Any information you give will remain strictly confidential.
