Adverse Life Events & Physical Illness

What could this look like?

There is an endless of circumstances outside of your control that may be negatively effective your studies and consequently your academic performance. These may include but are not limited too…

  • Relationship Troubles

  • Illness of a close family member

  • Grief & bereavement

  • Personal illness

  • Extenuating circumstances.

What do I need to do?

Every situation is different and may need a different approach. However, below are some general recommendations for steps that you could take if you are experiencing an adverse life event outside of your control, or a physical illness.

STEP ONE: Put an Academic Support plan in place.

If you are in a situation where you feel your academic performance could be compromised, it is important that you put a support plan in place as soon as you can. Talk to your Course/Year coordinators, they can’t help you unless they know what’s happening and it is best to get them on board as early as you can. They will be able to discuss potential options with you such as deferring an assessment, applying for an Aegrotat assessment or Impaired performance, or applying for an extension on an assignment. They may also be able to provide you with further study resources and tutorials. Read Massey’s guidelines around applying for an Aegortat/Impaired performance here….

Sometimes you may feel that you need a short time off university all together. Whilst lectures never have compulsory attendance, all practical classes, laboratory classes and field trips do unless it’s for one of the following circumstances…. Click here to see Massey’s policies & advice for taking time out.

  • Bereavment

  • Personal Illness

  • Personal Illness whilst on Clinical Rotations

  • Short Term Planned Person Choice Absence.

STEP TWO: Put a Personal Support plan in place.

It is important that you make sure you have the appropriate support systems that you in place to look after YOU during this time.
Explore the resources on the Wellbeing Hub & Proactive Resources Page, as well as look at the links below to find support for your situation.

  • Family Crisis - click here.

  • Dealing with grief & loss as a student - click here.

  • Dealing with a family illness whilst studying - click here.

  • Managing a personal chronic illness whilst studying - click here.