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View information for College of Medicine students regarding COVID-19

A Penn State Nittany Lion statue is seen in the courtyard of Penn State College of Medicine in Summer 2016. The statue is in focus toward the right side of the image. Out of focus in the background, green plants and trees are visible in the courtyard.

What Should I Do if Mistreatment Occurs?

There are many options available to you if you experience or witness mistreatment.

If You Can Resolve the Issue On Your Own

Move toward resolution through a discussion and seeking support.

If You’re Not Sure What To Do

If you are unsure about whether a behavior rises to the level of mistreatment, you are encouraged to contact Dr. Debra Byler, Director of the Office for a Respectful Learning Environment, at 717-531-8790 or dbyler@pennstatehealth.psu.edu for a confidential discussion.

If you’re unsure, you may also contact your academic advisor or a student ombudsperson.

If You Need More Help

If you cannot resolve the mistreatment issue on your own, you have four reporting options:

  • Contact the Office for a Respectful Learning Environment
  • Contact program leadership
    • MD and PA students: Contact the course or clerkship director
    • Graduate students: Contact Charles Lang, PhD, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies
    • Residents: Contact your residency program director
  • Complete an evaluation
    • MD and PA students: Complete a course or clerkship evaluation form at the end of class and answer mistreatment questions.
  • Report online