Division of Campus Life
Student Support Services

Student Support Services

Providing individualized, compassionate support to help students thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

Student Support Services staff partners with students and the broader university community to provide thoughtful, individualized support during times of personal difficulty. 

Through collaborative conversations and careful assessment, we work to understand the complex factors contributing to a student’s distress, whether raised by the student themself, a family member, or a member of the campus community. We meet directly with students to co-create a plan that fosters self-advocacy, personal development, and a return to well-being, positioning them for continued success at Brown. These plans include meaningful connections to campus and community resources tailored to each student’s unique circumstances.

At Brown, we recognize that pursuing a rigorous academic path can come with moments of challenge, and you don’t have to face them alone. If you’re experiencing difficulties, we’re here to help you think things through in a private, supportive, and affirming space. We’ll take the time to understand your unique circumstances, explore meaningful options, and connect you with campus and community resources that align with your goals. Reaching out early allows for more flexibility and a wider range of support, so we encourage you to connect with us before challenges begin to feel unmanageable. You belong here, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not a setback.

If you are a faculty member, staff member, fellow student, or family member concerned about a Brown student, Student Support Services can help. We offer resources on our website for families of Brown students, and consultation, education, and outreach for Brown employees and students to support your efforts in assisting students. Our team can provide guidance on how to navigate concerns, connect students with appropriate resources, and foster a supportive environment. You don’t need to have all the answers — we’re here to partner with you in supporting student well-being and success.

Seek Support      Help a Student

How We Can Help

  • Students can meet with a dean who will serve as a sounding board to help them explore their options during challenging times to find a path forward.
  • We can provide information on medical leaves of absence and support your return from a leave of absence.
  • We can provide consultation and educational resources for anyone concerned about and who wants to help a student.
  • We can connect students with appropriate resources at Brown and in the local community.