“Last year I missed lots of my classes. I was depressed, isolated and not coping with my work. I do not have any friends at uni. I am nervous and do not speak out when I experience problems. I would have drifted along unoticed and failing and I am certain I would have dropped out if it were not for my student advisor.
I would never speak to a tutor about my problems as I feel intimidated and they are far too busy. I would not speak to a student mentor either as I feel they are too close to my own age and I would be embarrassed. The student advisors are excellent. They have experience and you can talk to them about every aspect of university life - not just accademic or social life for example. You can be completely honest with an advisor whereas you may be tempted to hold back or lie when talking to a tutor.
If the service is reduced it will result in a poor 'student experience' for most people, not just those with severe problems. I do not think I will cope without my advisor and the quality time I can spend with her discussing issues and options. If the university are thinking of introducing online support it will not work. I am the sort of person that hates to talk to people, i always look at other options first (advice websites etc). But I, and many others, have suffered problems that can only be solved by discussion with a real person with experience and training. I believe face to face consultation is needed to determine the severity of a student's concerns that may seem trivial to an outsider.
This term is going to be tough. I also now speak to my doctor and a councillor - but I really need my advisor who, is knowledgable about the way sussex university works, gives me vital advice and is so wonderful. I cannot continue without her.”
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