Difficult conversations are just that: difficult. But they are a healthy, normal part of our relationships with others, including faculty advisors and colleagues. Having difficult conversations with faculty advisors and directors of graduate programs can be intimidating and overwhelming, particularly for new graduate students. Whether it is asking for feedback or discussing a conflict, the tendency can be to avoid the issue or possibly overact in a conversation. We will unpack why we sometimes avoid challenging conversations; discuss why they cause so much stress and anxiety; and identify strategies that will reduce stress and increase success in these conversations. While this session will be particularly relevant to communicating with faculty advisors, the challenges and strategies discussed will be applicable to multiple types of relationships. This interactive session is open to all graduate students and postdocs. ​FACILITATORS:Cinnamon Adams, Assistant Ombuds, Ombuds OfficeKimberly Curry, Director of Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Support, The GraduateSchoolSee more about all Timely Topics offered by The Graduate School. (https://grad.uconn.edu/timely-topics/) Please register (https://uconn.kualibuild.com/app/6669c239e126cf013bb99773/run) to receive a Webex link for this event. 

Training & Workshops