What can I do if my advisee and I are not a good fit?
If it can be done gracefully, sometimes switching a student to a more appropriate colleague is beneficial to both advisor and student. The goal should be to establish an advising relationship that is in the best interest of the student. Finding a colleague with whom the student has worked well is a good way to start. Sometimes a positive approach, followed by a query works well. “I understand you and Dr. Smith have worked well together. How would you feel about being assigned to him as advisor?” Communicate clearly and use your best judgment to avoid having the student feel as though he or she has been cast away. Continue to offer the student a mentoring relationship with you during and after the transition.
