Breaking Down the Brown University Leave Process

Project LETS Student Handbook: Breaking Down the Leave Process Table of Contents I. II. III.

IV. V. VI.

VII.

VIII. IX. X. XI. XII.

University Contacts Peer Resources Types of Leaves A. Personal B. Medical C. Academic D. Withdrawal Important Points Left Out of the Mainstream Narrative Academic Standing Leave Taking Logistics A. Deadlines B. What do I need to know if I want to take a leave?

C. How do I know if taking a leave is the​ right​ option for me?

D. How do I know if taking a leave is ​not the right​ option for me?

E. What options do I have if I’m failing my classes, and am being encouraged to take a leave but don’t want to?

F. Readmission Policies G. What do I need to know if my readmission application is denied?

H. Who should I notify if I am re-admitted?

I. Adjusting After a Leave J. Student Perspectives: What led you to take a leave?

K. Deans Perspectives Financial Information A. Notify the Office of Financial Aid if B. Reappling for Financial Aid C. Important Contacts D. Tuition Reimbursement Policy E. Financial Assistance from the University Graduation From Students: Words of Support Resources Tips from Deans FAQ

University Contacts ● June Drinkwater (Coordinator) ○ Graduate Center E, fourth floor (42 Charlesfield Street) ○ (401) 863-3145 ○ june_drinkwater@brown.edu ● Cynthia Ellis (Associate Dean) ○ Graduate Center E, fourth floor (42 Charlesfield Street) ○ (401) 863-3145 ○ cynthia_ellis@brown.edu ● Andrés Fernández (Assistant Dean) ○ Graduate Center E, fourth floor (42 Charlesfield Street) ○ (401) 863-3145 ○ andres_fernandez@brown.edu ● Mary Greineder (Assistant Dean) ○ Graduate Center E, fourth floor (42 Charlesfield Street) ○ (401) 863-3145 ○ mary_greineder@brown.edu ● Timothy R. Shiner (Interim Associate Dean and Director of Student Support Services) ○ Graduate Center E, fourth floor (42 Charlesfield Street) ○ (401) 863-3145 ○ timothy_shiner@brown.edu

Peer Resources Leave-taking coordinators:​ ​Matt Dang​ and ​Ryan Greene​ are the current leave-taking coordinators at the Curricular Resource Center and they are happy to chat about any and all things related to leave! Though they both took personal leaves of absence during their time at Brown, they are able (and willing!) to advise on the medical leave-taking process as well. For more information on the leave-taking resources provided by the Curricular Resource Center, check out the CRC website here.

Also, feel free to email Matt and Ryan at ​leavetakers@gmail.com​. [Location: Room 228 in Faunce] Leave-taking listserv: ​If you’d like to ask previous leave takers for advice of any kind, you can email your message to the current leave-taking coordinators at the CRC (​leavetakers@gmail.com​) and they can anonymously send the message out to the leave-taking listserv.

Project LETS PMHAs: ​PMHAs are available to work with students throughout the leavetaking process, at any point. PMHAs will work with students while you are applying for leave and on-campus, while you are off-campus, and/or while you are off-campus and applying for readmission.

Request a PMHA at ​letsatbrown@gmail.com​.

Types of Leaves 1. Personal Leave Main Points: ​Voluntary and student-initiated. Student determines leave’s duration and logistics. Contact academic advising deans.

Once you have an idea of what you might do on a leave, meet with an academic dean to discuss your plans and to request that the necessary paperwork be filed. It is essential that you understand how a leave might affect your academic progress and degree completion plans ​before taking your leave. Please note that students who are on any kind of leave for more than five years are not guaranteed readmission to Brown. Students wishing to take a personal leave once a semester is underway must do so no later than the mid-semester deadline, as indicated on the Registrar's academic calendar.

2. Medical Leave Main Points: ​Taken for physical or psychological health reasons. Typically last for two semesters. Benefits including academic support upon return. Contact Deans in the Office of Student Life.

A medical leave for physical or psychological health reasons is intended to allow a student sufficient time away from campus for a ​sustained recovery and/or stability​, and for activities that contribute to a successful return. Upon the recommendation of University Health Services, Psychological Services, or a student’s physician or therapist, a Student Support Dean may grant a student Medical Leave status. Student Support Services, at times in collaboration with other Brown offices, advises the student about plans to address her/his/their medical condition while on leave. To help prevent a medical condition from unfairly impacting a student’s official academic record, a medical leave is recorded on Brown University transcripts simply as “Leave of Absence”​ with the dates.

3. Academic Leave Academic leaves are taken when a student falls below the minimum course credit requirements. Deans in the Office of the Dean of the College are responsible for the logistics of these types of leaves and can help advise students.

4. Withdrawal Students who wish to withdraw from Brown permanently must meet with either Dean Christopher Dennis or Dean Carol Cohen. The dean will help ensure that the student is making a fully informed decision. Because withdrawing is a permanent decision, the dean will also

contact the student's parents or guardians to discuss the student's situation. Withdrawal may have financial aid and tuition implications that students and parents should know about before deciding to withdraw.

Important points left out of the mainstream narrative ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Not everyone wants to take a leave Not everyone enjoys their time off on leave Not everyone is forced on a medical leave Not everyone is going back to a positive or healthy environment when leaving campus Many students are on medical leave in lieu of academic suspension Not everyone utilizes a leave of absence in a “productive” manner Not everyone can afford treatment or academic courses while on a leave of absence Forced leaves of absence (or, in lieu of academic suspension) disproportionately impact lower-income, international, students of color.

Academic Standing Brown students normally complete all degree requirements in ​8 semesters of full-time study​.

"Academic standing" refers to the number of courses students are expected to complete each semester as they progress toward the degree.

First Year

Sophomore

Junior

Senior

Semester

Good Standing

Warning

Serious Warning

Suspension

1

3

2

1

0

2

7

6

5

4

3

11

10

9

8

4

15

14

13

12

5

18

17

16

15

6

22

21

20

19

7

26

25

24

23

8

30

--

--

--

Students who fall below academic progress requirements are placed on ​warning, serious warning, or suspension as indicated above.​ In addition, students who pass no courses in a given semester or fewer than five courses in two sequential semesters are eligible for suspension. ​Suspension

involves a mandatory one-year separation from the University.​ ​Exceptions to these rules are made when documented disabilities, health, or family issues significantly interfere with students' ability to focus on their studies.

Students on warning or serious warning may improve their academic standing by taking one or two courses in Brown’s summer session. Summer courses taken elsewhere have no effect on academic standing at Brown.

Resource: ​Handbook of the Committee on Academic Standing

Leave Taking Logistics Deadlines Declaring a leave: If you are planning to take leave for the spring semester (Semester 2), you must declare by ​Dec. 1st.

If you are planning to take leave for the fall semester (Semester 1), you should declare by ​May 1st.

Personal Leave Students on personal leave for fewer than five years may contact the Dean of the College office no later than ​April 1 to return in the subsequent fall.​ To return in the ​spring, contact the DOC no later than October 1.​ These deadlines allow readmitted students to participate in online pre-registration for the semester of their return.

Students on any kind of leave for more than ​five years​ must apply for permission to return to Brown by ​February 1 for fall semester readmission and by July 1 for spring semester readmission.​ Students on a personal leave or academic suspension should contact Deputy Dean Christopher Dennis for instructions. Students who left Brown on a medical should contact Interim Dean Tim Shiner in Student Support Services.

Medical Leave A student must apply for readmission from medical leave by submitting all letters by ​October 15th for spring semester readmission​, by ​February 1st for a summer and/or fall semester return​, or by ​May 1st for fall readmission.

What do I need to know if I want to take a leave?

Medical leaves ​are designed to give you a break from life on campus in order to best address your mental health. ​Psychological leaves​ require regularly seeing a therapist who can vouch for your readiness to return. Leaves of all types should, of course, be in your best interest; often this takes a good amount of reflection. Medical leaves last ​2 full semesters​, including summer and winter breaks.

In order to continue your studies you must go through a readmission process, requiring review by a number of different University offices (which we will describe in detail). *Students who have not shown a period of sustained stability or otherwise not met the readmission guidelines may be asked to remain on leave for a longer period of time and reapply in a future cycle.

How do I know if taking a leave is the right option for me?

There is no shame in deciding to take a leave, but ​you shouldn’t feel pressured to do so. ​As the 2014 Brown University Mental Health Community Council Report​ states, ​“Medical leaves taken by Brown students for mental health needs are voluntary. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we cannot and do not mandate medical leaves for mental health reasons.” ​However, many students cite being presented with medical leave in lieu of academic suspension, and others cite forced medical leave for displaying an ​imminent threat to self or others.

It is important to remember that leaves are meant to better prepare you for academic and social life at Brown upon your return, and that you should use your time to address your mental health in the ways you see most fit ​(though Brown University ​does ​have the ability to prescribe treatment suggestions).

Some students, however, do not feel that their mental health or well-being would improve by leaving their social and academic life on campus. In addition, other students cite an inability to financially afford treatment or continued academic courses.​ ​A leave will not negatively impact your academic record, being listed on your transcript simply as “leave of absence.”

Life at Brown is difficult enough without factoring in mental illness. For those who find themselves grappling with their mental health, however, it can seem impossible. Again, this is completely understandable and nothing to be ashamed of. On average, 46 students take medical leave each semester. Of those who apply for readmission, 87%, on average, are readmitted each semester.

Those not admitted can reapply the following semester; it is often the case that the admission criteria were simply not met. Concerns about readmission, in short, should not be the main reason you decide against medical leave.

“Truthfully, taking a medical leave of absence (MLA) felt to me like a last resort – I did not want to give in to the reality of my mental health’s rapid deterioration.

When I initially met with CAPS and my Dean at OSL during my stay at Butler, I was not willing to cooperate. I felt that I was being punished and pressured to leave campus by the system until Dean Ferranti brought my stuffed elephant to the hospital for me. She knew I didn’t have any family, and understood how difficult the transition to campus had been for me. Later, when she picked me up from the hospital after my discharge, we had a candid conversation that inspired me to use my MLA as time to process, create, and return stronger and more secure in myself. The process since then has been absolutely seamless.”

How do I know if taking a leave is ​not​ the right option for me?

As stated above, ​you should not feel pressured to take a leave of absence. ​Students we work with in Project LETS have sometimes cited ​over-aggressive attempts from university personnel ​in terms of suggesting a leave of absence.

Check in with yourself: 1. Did I suggest a leave of absence, or was it suggested to me by the university?

2. If it was suggested to me, why was it offered? a. Who reached out? b. What was the conversation like? c. Do you feel as though you were given multiple options? d. Are you being offered a leave in response to psychiatric symptoms, such as self-harm, mania, psychosis, suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, or psychiatric hospitalization?

3. If it was self-suggested, what indicators did you recognize in terms of needing time off?

4. Did you disclose medical information to the university that you feel was used against you?

5. Do you have a documented disability or illness that impacts your academic functioning? a. If so, have you conveyed this information to the university?

6. How do you feel about a leave of absence?

7. What do you hope to tackle during your leave of absence?

8. What do you hope to be different when you return?

9. Do you feel as though you were offered adequate supports to help you stay on campus?

10. How is your relationship with your family? Are they more of a support for you, or a trigger?

11. Do you feel comfortable returning to your home environment?

12. Is your family supportive of a leave of absence? a. If the leave is for psychiatric reasons, are they supportive/understanding of mental illness?

13. Are you able to afford transportation back home?

14. Are you able to afford consistent therapy?

15. Are you able to afford consistent medications?

16. Do you feel that being removed from your social/academic life will help more than it will hurt?

17. What are you still unsure about?

What options do I have if I’m failing my classes, and am being encouraged to take a leave but don’t want to?

Incompletes In cases where a student has outstanding work in a course other than a final exam, a course instructor may choose to grant a grade of Incomplete. ​Only an authorized dean may excuse a student from a scheduled final exam.​ ​The authority to grant an Incomplete rests with

the course instructor​, who may simply enter a notation of INC when submitting a student's final grade.

An Incomplete grade from the fall that is finished by the following ​February 1st​ ​will improve a student's academic standing​ (e.g. from Warning to Good Standing).​ ​Spring semester Incompletes must be completed by the following ​July 1st​ in order to count toward academic standing. If a student finishes an Incomplete by the stated deadline but the faculty member does not submit a grade by that time, the Chair of the Committee on Academic Standing may change the student's academic standing if the faculty member confirms that the work was completed and received by the deadline.

Incompletes made up after the stated deadlines but within one academic year from the time the Incomplete was granted do not change the student's academic standing.

However, they do count as completed courses. Credit for Incompletes finished after the one-year deadline must be approved by the Committee on Academic Standing.

One-semester thesis courses taken in the first semester of senior year result in a transcript grade of Incomplete if the thesis is not completed at that time. If this presents a problem with post-graduation plans, students are strongly encouraged to register for the thesis course in their eighth semester of study.

Workload Reductions ● Contact ​Dean Carol Cohen​ (Senior Associate Dean of the College for Class Advising/Health and Personal Issues)​ ​or ​Dean Christopher Dennis ● Want to speak to a PMHA about their experience? ​E-mail ​letsatbrown@gmail.com

“I’ve been told that moving forward, I have the option of taking a reduced course load to accommodate my needs. I feel healthy enough now that I could take a full course load as long as the classes were manageable, but it’s comforting to know it’s always an option.”

Readmission Policies Readmission Guidelines 1) Student letter:​ The letter must be sent attention to the Dean who is working with you, Student Support Services, 42 Charlesfield Street, Box 2014, Providence, RI 02912. Letters may also be emailed to: OSL@brown.edu. This letter should indicate: ● The student’s wish to return from medical leave. ● How he/she/they have addressed the symptoms leading to a medical leave. ● How the student has spent his/her/their time while on leave.

●

Reflection on the student’s ability to return to the rigors of academic study and the social demands of Brown.

2) Therapist’s letter (For leaves which require clearance from Counseling and Psychological Services): The student is required to have his/her/their therapist (not a relative) send a letter to the Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, c/o Medical Leave Readmission Committee, Student Support Services, 42 Charlesfield Street, Box 2014, Providence, RI 02912. This therapist letter must include the following: ● A diagnosis based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual V of the American Psychiatric Association. ● The length of the student’s treatment and treatment goals. ● The student’s current mental state. ● The student’s attainment of treatment goals and his/her/their readiness to return to the academic and social demands of Brown University. ● Whether or not medication has been part of the treatment plan, and indication of the purpose, dosage, and anticipated duration of this medication. ● Plans for follow-up care, including recommendations for continuing in psychotherapy.

3) Physician’s Letter (For leaves which require clearance from University Health Services):​ The student is required to have his/her/their physician (not a relative) send a letter to, Dr. Unab Khan, Director, University Health Services, ℅ Medical Leave Readmission Committee, Student Support Services, 42 Charlesfield Street, Box 2014, Providence, RI 02912. This physician letter must include the following: ● A diagnosis of the condition leading to the student’s medical leave ● The length and course of the student’s treatment. ● The current status of the student’s medical health. ● The student’s attainment of treatment goals and his/her/their readiness to return to the academic and social demands of Brown University. ● Whether or not medication has been part of the treatment plan, and indication of the purpose, dosage, and anticipated duration of this medication. ● Plans for follow-up care, including recommendations for continuing medical treatment.

Readmission Review Process The Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, The Director of Health Services, and Student Support Services Deans will review their respective letters in February, May and October to determine that the student has met the following readmission criteria: ● Obtained ​sufficient relief from the disruptive symptoms​, as listed in the DSM IV, which led to the hospitalization and/or medical leave. ● Provided information that treatment with psychological and medical health care providers of an appropriate length has occurred. ● Demonstrated an understanding of events which led to his/her/their hospitalization and/or medical leave and an ability to use appropriate health care resources for prevention/treatment as needed. ● Is able to pursue individual academic and social goals ​without detracting from the goals and welfare of other students​ and ​without making excessive or unreasonable demands on University support systems or personnel​. “Excessive or unreasonable demands” is defined as ​interruption of the normal daily workload of one or more departments​ as a result of a student’s misconduct or frequent requests for service.

Brown Counseling and Psychological Services staff, Health Services staff, a Dean of the College, and Student Support Services Deans will also evaluate the following:

● ● ●

The appropriateness of the student’s academic and social plans for return to Brown.

The student’s support system (family and friends) and its part in the student’s readjustment to Brown.

The general activities of the student while on medical leave to determine their contribution to the student’s readiness to return to Brown.

Once the review is complete most students are notified by letter whether they have been readmitted or not. In a small number of cases where there is uncertainty about any of the readmission criteria,​ on-campus interviews may be arranged near the end of the semester​. ​The student meets with a Counseling and Psychological Services staff member to review the therapist’s letter and a Health Services staff member to review the physician’s letter.​ Counseling and Psychological Services and Health Services immediately transmits their recommendations concerning the student’s readiness for readmission to the authorizing Student Support Services Dean, who meets with the student next. ​This Dean is responsible for making and communicating the final decision.​ When a student is readmitted, Student Support Services begins the process of notifying other offices on campus.

What do I need to know if my readmission application is denied?

Appeal Process ●

● ●

Within ​five (5) days​ of notification of the denial for readmission, the student may appeal, in writing, the decision of the committee, setting out the reason for the appeal and any supporting materials. Appeals will be submitted to Dean of Students or his/her/their designee.

Appeals will normally be considered only when: (1) there is ​new information that was not reasonably available at the time of the original readmission deadline​; or (2) when ​a substantial procedural error by the University or Medical Readmission Committee is demonstrated​ and in the reasonable judgment of the appeal officer such error is sufficient enough that it may have affected the original decision. If the appeal officer determines that the appeal has merit, he/she/they may change the decision or may remand the matter to the Medical Readmission Committee.

Note:​ Notifying other offices concurrent with applying for readmission will aid the student’s return to campus.

Contacts are listed in ​Financial Information ​section. ● ●

●

When Student Support Services informs the Registrar’s Office that a student has been readmitted, the Registrar’s Office will contact the student via email regarding the process for online registration.

A student who has been placed on Medical Leave in Lieu of Academic Suspension must ​apply to the Committee on Academic Standing for simultaneous readmission.​ It is a requirement that a Medical Leave in Lieu of Academic Suspension last two full semesters.

A student may contact a Dean in Student Support Services by phone at 401-863-3145 with any questions about the medical leave process.

Who should I notify if I am re-admitted?

Curricular Resource Center ​(Campus Center, Room 228, x3-3013) Office of Insurance and Risk ​(164 Angell Street, x3-1848) Contact this office to enroll in Brown’s Student Health Insurance plan, or determine whether you are eligible to waive it if you are under a different plan already.

Office of Financial Aid ​(JWW 2nd Floor, (Box 1827), x3-2721) If you are requesting Financial Aid, you should contact the Office of Financial Aid at the earliest possible date, to make your need known and to request complete application materials. Remember that some parts of the application are due as early as Feb 15th.

Office of Residential Life​ (Grad Center E, 42 Charlesfield Street, Box 1864, x3-3500) Students are urged to make housing arrangements before taking a leave of absence, if possible, and no later than February 1 if returning for Semester 1, or December 1 if returning for Semester II. Registrar's Office​ (JWW, 3rd Floor, x3-2500) To transfer course credit for work completed elsewhere, have the institution at which you studied send an official transcript of your work directly to Brown's Office ot the Registrar, Brown University, Box K, Providence, RI 02912. If your transfer courses require post-approval from departments or concentrations, contact the appropriate faculty members a.s.a.p. after your return.

Office of International Student & Scholar Services​ (JWW, 5th Floor, Room 510, x3-2427 - for International Students) Look into issues relating to your student visa or immigration status if you are studying at Brown on a student visa.

Brown Dining Services​ (144 Thayer Street, x3-3343) Contact Dining Services to enroll in a meal plan.

Loan Office​ (Brown Office Building, 164 Angell Street, 2nd Floor, x3-3296) Contact the Loan Office if you have questions regarding previous or future loans.

Student and Employee Accessibility Services​ (20 Benevolent St, Box P x3-9588) Meet with the SEAS office if you are wondering about psychological, physical, and learning disabilities, and seeking additional information and services to assist you.

Adjusting After a Leave ●

●

●

●

Returning from leave can definitely be a transition. There are new faces on campus, and your friends may be at a different stage of their time at Brown. That said, there are a number of ways to plug into new communities once you return.

One way to do this is to come to the ​“Welcome Back Dinner”​ run by the Leavetaking Coordinators at the Curricular Resource Center (CRC). This dinner is a chance to meet other people who are transitioning back into student life. After this initial Welcome Back Dinner, there are ​monthly leavetaking potlucks put on by the CRC​. Past, present and future leavetakers can come to these potlucks.

Alongside these more informal ways to ease your transition out of leave, there is also a weekly support group through Counseling and Psychological Services called​ “Back at Brown.” ​If you’re interested in participating in Back at Brown, you can send an email to Linda Welsh ( linda_welsh@brown.edu).

You can also meet with a professional from the SEAS office if you are wondering about psychological, physical, and learning disabilities, and seeking additional information and services to assist you.

“I dealt with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, and trauma from an experience that wasn't sexual assault, but almost. I'm queer/trans and a survivor of abuse, so all of those constantly and daily impact all of my mental health problems. Adjusting to Brown was and still is difficult. I went to CAPS twice throughout the year, but it was nearly impossible to get appointments, and one therapist I saw wasn't helpful or thoughtful regarding trans issues. I mentioned about feeling emotionally unstable constantly because of my gender fluidity, and he essentially dismissed those concerns and told me to "practice meditation" instead. I felt reasonably comfortable with the other therapist I saw, but it's just so damn hard to get appointments.”

Financial Information Notify the Office of Financial Aid if: ● ● ● ●

You have any federal or University loan. Your grace period will begin to be used starting the last day you attended classes. Depending upon the duration of your leave, your loans may go into repayment.

You have any private loans. Contact your private lender directly to learn how your leave may affect your private loans. The private loan may go into repayment immediately.

Your leave is prior to the start of classes. In this case, your financial aid will simply be cancelled.

Your leave is after classes have begun. Your financial aid will be prorated, and you may owe a bill to Brown. Meet with a financial aid counselor for more information

Reapplying for Financial Aid Deadlines: ● Semester 1: May 6 ● Semester 2: November 1 ● RUE Students: March 10

Important Contacts (when you’re leaving) Tuition information​ (unless you have tuition insurance) according to the Tuition Refund Policy available on the Bursar’s website. The Bursar’s Office may also be reached by calling (401) 863-2484.

Meal Plan:​ ​A student may request a pro-rata credit on Dining Services charges by presenting a copy of the leave form to the Dining Services Office on the lower level of the Sharpe Refectory (Thayer Street, 401-863-3343). If the student taking the leave has left campus, the Registrar’s Office will notify Dining Services.

Residential Life:​ ​A student should contact the Housing Office at (401) 863-3500 for a refund schedule.

Loans:​ A student who has received loans as part of her/his/their financial aid must contact the University Loan Office at (401) 863-3296 or by email at loans@brown.edu regarding loan repayment requirements, contact lenders about the change in enrollment, and review benefits that may be available to assist them during the leave.

Financial Aid:​ ​A student receiving financial aid should contact a financial aid counselor by calling (401) 863-2721, by emailing financial-aid@brown.edu, or visiting the Financial Aid website. Refunds from scholarships or grants are credited through the Financial Aid Office. The balance is available to the student and/or payer.

For updated Health Insurance details please see the website for Brown’s Insurance Office ​here.

Health Services and Student Activity Fees:​ The Health Services fee is not refunded if a student leaves the University at any time after the start of the semester. The Student Activity fee is not refunded after the tenth day of classes for the semester.

Tuition Reimbursement Policy In order to receive a refund on overpayment following a leave, you must first complete ​this form.

After adding their US banking account information using the “setup account” button on https://payment.brown.edu​. The funds will be in your account in about 3 business days. If you do not add your account information or do not have a U.S bank account, you will receive a paper check.

Refunds are given based on the following timetable: Weeks into Semester Leave begins

Percentage of Tuition Refunded

1 and 2

80

3

60

4

40

5

20

“Financial Aid covered the cost of my attendance for the time I was on campus, and basically froze my named scholarship throughout the duration of my leave.

Since my award includes University Health Insurance, I was able to utilize my benefits to receive treatment during my time off-campus. When it was time to apply for readmission, I applied for Financial Aid as usual. Their office made a one-time special exception for me, clearing a small outstanding balance I had accrued at the bookstore with the understanding that I am a student with extreme financial need. I cannot express how immensely grateful I am for the total cooperation of the Office of Financial Aid. In a strange way, their total

support of my scholarship helps me to not only know but also feel that I am worthy of a Brown education, something I struggled with before my leave.”

Financial Assistance from the University “I don’t remember there being many options to fly home – a close friend of my Mother’s learned of my overdose and subsequent hospitalization, and quickly booked a flight for me using her husband’s frequent flier miles. I’m not sure what I would have done without her help, much less what my options would have been.”

Finances should ​not ​be a factor when considering a leave of absence, particularly a medical leave. If you have concerns about affording: treatment, airfare, medications, or academic courses while on leave, contact: Veronica Elie ​(Assistant Dean for Financial Advising) vernicia_elie@brown.edu (401) 863-5671

Graduation Many leavetakers complete their degree requirements in December. Every year, Brown University holds a Midyear Completion Celebration for .5'ers. In addition, .5'ers are welcome to participate in the graduation ceremony the semester before and/or after their December completion.

Since 1989, Brown University has sponsored a ​Midyear Completion Celebration in December​ for Brown students expecting to complete degree requirements at that time. Usually scheduled on the first Saturday in December, the celebration provides students an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with family and friends in an intimate, relaxed setting. The Dean of the College presides over the ceremony; the President of the University hosts the reception following the ceremony. Students completing their degree requirements midyear are issued their diplomas in May of the following calendar year.

Mid-year completers are welcome to "walk" in the May ceremony preceding and/or following their December completion.​ There are no formal steps you have to go through in order to walk. You will also be able to purchase all of the items that graduating seniors are purchasing, from graduation caps and gowns, which go on sale at the bookstore in the beginning of May, to senior week packages.

If you want to participate in your departmental graduation ceremony, you should contact your departmental coordinator. You should also check with your concentration director to learn about your concentration's specific guidelines. **Diplomas are issued the May following December completion.

Student perspectives: What led you to take a leave?

“Depression and anxiety have been serious medical issues for me throughout most of my life. In Fall 2015 when I decided to take a Medical Leave of Absence, I had successfully been without medication for approximately three years, ​but the difficulty of moving far from home into such a socially and academically rigorous university setting caused me to begin having suicidal thoughts.​ I immediately sought medical attention from CAPS, and was referred to an intensive outpatient program at Rhode Island Hospital where I began taking medication. Later, I overdosed on my prescription in a suicide attempt that led me to receive inpatient treatment at Butler Hospital. It became clear then that I needed to take a MLA in order to address the underlying issues from my past that had not yet been resolved in previous treatment so that I could be successful in my academic and personal pursuits.” -GB “I dealt with a resurgence of my anxiety and depression due to an emotionally abusive relationship at Brown. I was also taking ​oral contraceptive pills that worsened my depression​. I was being regularly taken advantage of as a woman, and had an obligation as a woman to thoroughly protect myself (and according to my partner, his liability) from pregnancy with readily available hormone-filled medication, which quickly dismantled all the work I had previously done to cope with my anxiety and depression.” - 2018 “When I came to Brown during my freshmen fall I shared my self-harming habits with a friend I had recently become close to. I had never and have never self-harmed at Brown as I like to call it my "safe place" where all my efforts are placed into keeping this habit of mine away from. My friend immediately advised me to go to CAPS (then Psych services) and messaged me their phone number.

I didn't want to lose a friend I had just made and it seemed very important that I go and seek help, so I did. I made my first appointment and shared my experience. It turned out that, like many things, my self-harm was linked to anger management and the fact that until I had come to Brown I never fully embraced my sexuality. Sessions helped A LOT. I joined a mental health student group on campus partly to see if what was going on with me could also be something other people were dealing with and partly to get a better understanding of what resources were out there both for myself and for my roommate who at the time

was dealing with depression. I then became more comfortable talking about mental illnesses and joining a community of people who were eager to help and create safe spaces for people to talk at. Being part of a student group was by far the most enriching and helpful experience I've had dealing with my self-harm and going to CAPS was the hour I needed to unload my burden and talk about it. 2017 “My first year at Brown, I applied to Project LETS' PMHA program, and that's where I met a peer counselor who I truly believe changed my life. My PMHA inspired me and showed me that it was possible to be a successful, thriving, and happy college student who also has a mental illness. In addition, I found the psychologists at CAPS very helpful (although I did have to switch psychologists a couple times to find someone I was comfortable speaking to); I have also found that SEAS has always been on my side. I have never felt comfortable using Brown's psychiatric services, however, and because of this, I was unable to get my prescription refilled before I ran out of medication during finals, as my prescribing doctor was still in California. ​Luckily, my PMHA guided me through this difficult time.​” - 2019

Dean’s Perspectives From Dean Ellis: I often find that students as well as parents are concerned about pursuing a medical leave of absence due to the ​uncertainty​ attached to taking this step. For many this will be the first time a student will move forward on something without having a fully outlined plan in place. However, it is our experience that once on leave, many students, including those most concerned about returning to Brown quickly, discover the value of taking time away and realize that taking whatever amount of time is truly needed has great value. Once students make a shift to focusing on their own health and well-being and away from the rigors of academia, they discover that healing takes whatever time it takes. Indeed, many students discover that it feels good to shift the way they think about themselves in the world, and that they start to see more clearly the factors that contributed to the need for a leave in the first place.

We recommend that students take a full year away mainly for this reason. We want students to make a commitment to health and healing. Trying to plan how long a leave will be at the outset is somewhat arbitrary and can interfere with the process of caring for oneself. We want to be sure students do not set themselves up for a premature return only to have to take another leave from Brown.

Students can apply to return after less than a year away. Keep in mind that the committee, through careful and thoughtful consideration of all your application materials, is looking for evidence of sustained stability. Students who apply before demonstrating this may be asked to take more time

away. ​An overwhelming majority of students whose application to return is denied the first time do return in a later semester​, often reporting that in retrospect they were glad to have taken the extra time after all.

Resources LeaveTaking Checklist Brown University Medical Leave of Absence Blog

Important Campus Updates For students on leave who may be concerned about visa related questions for their return to Brown in the future, this information, sent to the campus community in a letter from the President and the Provost, may be useful information.

Message from Brown’s President and Provost:​ Commitment to our Community in a Time of Uncertainty Letter from Provost Richard M. Locke​ regarding executive order on immigration and refugee policy Letter from University and College Presidents​ regarding the executive order on immigration and refugee policy

From Students: Words of Support “Whatever you are going through is worth taking care of and spending time on.

Don't give up on options​ which is probably the hardest aspect of dealing with a mental illness or accessing resources for the first time. If you try one course of action and that doesn't work, try another. If you see one therapist and find it utterly useless and disappointing, try another. We are all different people and like to deal with ourselves in different ways; thankfully, Brown's community is so rich that with a little bit of luck and patience you'll be able to find the person/student group/therapist/activity that makes a difference in your life. Sometimes it is hard to believe that the people around us are there to help and guide us in the right way.” - 2017 “I would advise students to be patient. Admitting that you are struggling with a mental health issue and seeing someone for the first time to get help is the first step. Relief won't come instantly. But sticking it out through difficult conversations, medication trials, and confronting yourself and your state of mind

daily, WILL help you feel better again. Don't give up on yourself or those who are here to help you.”

“I would suggest to keep anyone struggling with mental health issues to try and keep their medical professionals in the same state​, if possible. I know it can be a hassle to find new medical providers, especially if you like the ones you had back home, but it's not a replacement, just a safety net. In addition, I would stress the importance of ​communication​, in regards to peers, professors, CAPS/ SEAS staff, and deans. It's much better to ​open lines of communication early on​ so that if/ when you find yourself in a hard place, everyone knows what's going on, and is more willing to help you out. I know it can be scary and awkward to reach out to staff, but this can be a ​critical act of self care at Brown​.”

Tips from Deans From the ​Brown University Medical Leave of Absence Blog: ● Sometimes you may need to take proactive steps towards fully honoring your health and well-being above all else. ● In addition to seeking treatment, you will be encouraged to engage in activities that you find meaningful. Students find all kinds of things to do, from taking classes elsewhere, to working, to volunteering, to starting a business (examples: jewelry making, computer related business, dog walking, etc). ● Some engage in regular exercise or yoga for the first time. This is an opportunity for you to open your options and do things you might never have considered before. ● Taking time away from the stress of academics in order to attend fully to your health allows you to put your full attention into healing. This will then allow you to put your full attention into your academics upon your return. ● Taking a medical leave gives you the chance to focus on growth and development of your personhood as a whole. While away from Brown, you will have more time to focus on other aspects of who you are as a person by finding things that are meaningful to you.

FAQ I feel incredibly overwhelmed. Is there someone that can walk me through this process?

You should be assigned a Dean as a point-of-contact by the university. In addition, you may request a Peer Mental Health Advocate (PMHA) from ​www.letsatbrown.org​ who will work with you ​one-on-one

and ​long-term ​throughout the process of applying for leave, applying for readmission, or while you are on leave.

I feel that I was forced on medical leave. Who can I speak to about this?

Forced medical leaves are against the ADA. If you feel that you are being wrongly pressured to take a medical leave, or that you are being discriminated against, contact ​SEAS​, ​Timothy R. Shiner (Interim Associate Dean and Director of Student Support Services), and ​June Drinkwater (Coordinator of Leavetaking). In addition, you may request a student advocate through Project LETS (​letsatbrown@gmail.com​) or file a formal grievance with the university or the ADA.

How will taking leave affect financial aid or loans?

We strongly recommend that all students receiving financial aid meet with a counselor in the Financial Aid Office to discuss their individual situations. As an overview, assuming a student declares leave in advance of the deadline for an upcoming semester, they will be neither billed for tuition nor receive financial aid. Students should be sure to still adhere to financial aid deadlines regarding reapplication for the following year, just the same as if they were not on leave. Students with loans should meet with a counselor in the loan office to determine how a leave of absence might affect loan repayment.

How will taking a leave affect my housing options?

All students planning to take a leave of absence should notify the Office of Residential Life prior to departure. Students on leave in the spring but planning to return for the fall can designate a friend as their proxy to choose housing for them during the lottery. Unfortunately, taking a leave of absence does mean that you lose your off-campus permission for the semester in which you return, but students returning with a semester level of 7 or higher can meet with a staff member from the Office of Student Life to get permission again.

Can I speak to students with mental illness about their experience?

Yes! You can email Project LETS at ​letsatbrown@gmail.com​ or request a PMHA from letsatbrown.org/pmhas.

You may also speak to Leavetaking Coordinators at the CRC, though it is not guaranteed they have experience with mental illness or a medical leave.