If your circumstances keep getting worse or if a sudden, life-threatening crisis happens, this is where a mandate can escalate into a leave of absence. I’ll be honest, things can get tense and uncertain very quickly at this point as your mandate team responds to the situation. I was terrified in the days after my crisis about what would happen, and know that it’s absolutely valid if you are feeling nervous as well, because you’re going through something painful and difficult.
Shortly after a crisis of any sort, your liaison or point person may already be raising the possibility of a leave. It is crucial that you take these suggestions seriously, as they might not be suggestions at all, but rather previews of a potentially required leave to be finalized later. If Student Affairs has already made up their mind, there is unfortunately nothing you can do but to be prepared for the news that you will have to take an LOA.
Parent/Guardian Involvement
Although your academic information is private via FERPA, note that in an emergency, the school can notify your parent(s) or legal guardian(s) about what’s happening. If possible, Student Affairs may require your parents to visit campus for an in-person meeting. You may hear in advance that parents/guardians are coming, and if they do, they may immediately be tasked with transporting you home should an LOA occur.
What to Do Immediately After
First, follow the instructions the Student Affairs point person is giving you. Believe me, I know how devastating and unfair a forced leave can feel. It’s awful and I have absolute empathy for you, but trying to leave the conversation or remain on campus can lead to further consequences such as CMU PD getting involved.
If you live on-campus, they’ll likely give you a chance to return to your dorm to pack your belongings. In fact, you can schedule with your housefellow to return to Pittsburgh and retrieve anything you haven’t already taken home anytime before the semester ends.
If your leave was due to medical reasons (physical or mental health), the university may first require a hospital stay before you’re allowed to return home. Once again, please comply with any doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists with whom you may interact, as ensuring that you’re physically and psychologically safe is a key component of the ultimate return decision.