It may seem self evident to raise this point, but we find that many students remain ignorant of what their department is able to provide. In some departments you will probably be given this information or your supervisor will induct you to the department's ways of doing things. In other cases, you need to find it out for yourself. Students usually know to ask about such things as the use of computers and the setting up of email. But there are other things you need to know. There may be money available to help with some research costs for example, funds for the transcription of interviews, for equipment, for use of vehicles, for field trips, as well as the more obvious costs such as for photocopying, purchase of texts not available for loan in Australia, conferences and the like. Apart from these kinds of resources, if you are doing experimental work, you will probably need to learn the correct procedures to follow in your department for ordering your materials. There may be time as well as cost implications here. The earlier you find out about such things, the more settled in you will feel and know what to do when the need for something arises.

	What can I expect from my supervisor and what does my supervisor expect from me?
	Intellectual support.
	Emotional support.
	Identifying necessary skills.
	Clarifying expectations.
	Learning about your rights and obligations as a student.
	Formal procedures.
	Some writing tips.