Where to go and who to talk to if you have a problem

To report abuse, discrimination, assault, etc.: Start with the Dean of Students Office. You may also contact our GEO Stewards, Chris Claypool (@email) and Beth Rogers (@email), and GEO (geo@umass.edu). More information about GEO can be found in this guide.

The Ombuds Office is a unique place where all current UMass Amherst students, faculty, and staff can talk confidentially and "off the record" about any campus concern, issue, or conflict. The Ombuds staff work with visitors in a variety of ways to help them understand their options and resolve their concerns. The Office works to foster a culture in which differences can be resolved through respectful communication and fair process.

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access is there to provide you with support, options, and guidance. They promote an inclusive, equitable, and caring campus culture and oversee Title IX policy and processes prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education.

UMass Amherst offers a number of diversity, equity, and inclusion resources for students, faculty, and staff. Whether you are seeking academic resources; looking for opportunities for social interaction in organizations; curious about campus policies and regulations; or need to find support during crisis or incidents of bias; they are here to help you. Diversity Matters is designed to be your one-stop shop for information. Use the resource navigation sidebar to explore resources related to academics, bias reporting and crisis support, campus life, policies, mentoring, and learn about available trainings and workshops.

If you join a lab and realize that it is not working for you for whatever reason, it is ok. OEB students have changed labs/advisors in the past. It is a process, but student-advisor relationships can be tricky and major mismatches happen. If you are having trouble with your current advisor, reach out to our GEO Stewards, the GPD, and/or the GOC.

If you are struggling financially, reach out to GEO.

Graduate students are also welcome to contact the Counseling Center (CCPH) on campus if you need someone to talk to. The student health insurance plan includes therapy sessions so definitely take advantage of this resource if/when you are struggling with anything.