If you feel like there is conflict in the relationship with your faculty adviser, you should set a time to meet face to face with him/her as soon as possible. This will allow you to reach a conclusion much more effectively (and quickly) than if you send an e-mail (which can be misunderstood, particularly when discussing sensitive topics). It is never a good idea to let an issue or concern fester, as that will likely lead to more problems in the future.
When you talk to your adviser be very clear about your concerns or needs. Try to develop a solution with your adviser, and be flexible and patient. If the issue cannot be resolved in your meeting, consider finding another trusted faculty member to talk to. Always be respectful, and remember that faculty members may talk to each other.
Your Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) has a responsibility to manage conflicts also. Meet with him/her if your meeting with your advisor leaves unresolved issues. Here is a list of the current DGSs across Duke’s campus.
Don’t forget that there are a number of resources available to you at Duke. Serious problems can be taken to the chair of your department. The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Duke has many great resources and support services available for free to all Duke students. Some services include individual counseling and stress reduction workshops.
Some of the information summarized above comes from Finish Your Thesis. You should check out the link for more general tips on addressing conflicts or concerns. You can also read more from APA to learn about the conditions that should be in place to allow for effective discussions of difficult issues, and for steps to take when discussing an issue.
When you talk to your adviser be very clear about your concerns or needs. Try to develop a solution with your adviser, and be flexible and patient. If the issue cannot be resolved in your meeting, consider finding another trusted faculty member to talk to. Always be respectful, and remember that faculty members may talk to each other.
Your Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) has a responsibility to manage conflicts also. Meet with him/her if your meeting with your advisor leaves unresolved issues. Here is a list of the current DGSs across Duke’s campus.
Don’t forget that there are a number of resources available to you at Duke. Serious problems can be taken to the chair of your department. The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Duke has many great resources and support services available for free to all Duke students. Some services include individual counseling and stress reduction workshops.
Some of the information summarized above comes from Finish Your Thesis. You should check out the link for more general tips on addressing conflicts or concerns. You can also read more from APA to learn about the conditions that should be in place to allow for effective discussions of difficult issues, and for steps to take when discussing an issue.