For various reasons, it can become necessary to change advisers along the way, due to irreconcilable differences, an adviser leaving for another institution, new and relevant faculty arriving, a shift in student interests, or other circumstances.
Pre-candidacy, when the ADGS is the adviser of record, a student who wishes to make a change should consult the DGS, who can assist the student in determining whether a primary subfield switch is appropriate as well as helping the student to identify which faculty members should be involved in the advising process.
Post-candidacy, the DGS and/or the ADGS of the subfield assists the student in identifying and approaching the new adviser. In cases where the adviser and ADGS are the same person, the DGS assists the student similarly. If the DGS is also serving as ADGS for the subfield and as the student’s adviser, the department chair guides the student through the process. If the switch is initiated by the adviser, they should begin by consulting the ADGS for the subfield to determine who another appropriate adviser might be. In order to enable clear communication, the ADGS remains available for consultation by both student and adviser throughout the process of switching to a new adviser. If the ADGS and the adviser are the same person, the DGS serves in a similar way. If the DGS is also serving as ADGS for the subfield and as the student adviser, the department chair guides the student through the process. The DGS is always available for consultation regarding any questions or problems that might arise; for any concerns involving the DGS, the department chair serves as the point of contact.