The Student Ombuds Office is a safe, confidential resource for FSU students to ask questions and share concerns about university policies, processes, and procedures. The Student Ombuds Office supports FSU students through providing counsel, answering questions, and sharing FSU-related resources.
The Student Ombuds Office supports students by considering all sides of an issue in an impartial and objective way. The Student Ombuds may meet with a student several times. During all meetings, the Student Ombuds will listen with an open mind and ask questions to better understand the situation and help the student define his or her priorities. These techniques help the student develop options for resolving an issue and assist the student with understanding the consequences of each option. Students may be coached on how to communicate their concerns respectfully and persuasively.
The Student Ombuds Office may facilitate discussions between the relevant parties if directed to do so by the student to solve an issue informally. Alternatively, at the request of the student, the Student Ombuds Office may counsel the student on how to initiate a formal process. Specifically, the Student Ombuds Office will explain how the process works and answer any of the student’s questions with respect to the process. The Student Ombuds Office cannot (1) advocate for the student during the process, (2) act as a mediator between the student and FSU staff/faculty, or (3) make decisions on behalf of Florida State University.
- When you believe you have been unfairly treated with respect to a university policy or process.
- When you need help understanding FSU policies.
- If you need help preparing to advocate for yourself as part of a university policy or process.
- When you are unsure of where to go or what options exist to resolve your issue.
- If you feel you have a problem that you cannot resolve.
- If you are seeking informal methods to solve issues.
- If you need to discuss a sensitive question or issue.
- Knowledge of university policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Referrals to those who have subject matter expertise in a specific area.
- Advice and clarification of options.
- Perspective on an issue you are facing.
- Valuable skills to advocate for yourself with confidence and clarity.
- Communication skills to help resolve interpersonal issues.
- Help students learn skills to advocate persuasively and respectfully.
- Informally research a student’s concerns.
- Refer students to those who can formally address their concerns.
- Clarify FSU policy and discuss/define a student’s options.
- Assist with problems that have not been resolved.
- Recommend changes to FSU policies.
- Advocate on behalf of a student.
- Give legal advice.
- Act as a mediator.
- Conduct formal investigations.
- Participate in any formal FSU hearing or grievance process.
- Supersede the authority of other FSU officials or faculty.
It is helpful to have all documentation related to your situation available when meeting with the Student Ombuds Office. For example, letters or emails you have sent or received, class syllabi, copies of forms, or any other supporting documentation. If you are unsure of what documentation to have available, please feel free to contact the Student Ombuds Office by emailing studentombuds@fsu.edu or calling 850-644-4475.
However, this is by no means a requirement. It is the student’s choice regarding how much information to share with the Student Ombuds Office.
- Making an appointment ensures that the Student Ombuds will be available to meet with you. The Student Ombuds Office may not always be able to accommodate walk-ins.
- Some matters can be handled via email. The Student Ombuds Office will notify you if an office visit is necessary. Meetings may be in-person or virtual. To schedule a meeting, please contact the Student Ombuds Office by emailing studentombuds@fsu.edu or calling 850-644-4475.