Tapping Campus Resources

Transitioning to a college campus can be overwhelming. Beyond the basics of literally finding their way around the physical campus, students need to know how to find their way to information and services they may need. What's the best way to learn how to do this, and what are key resources they should know about?

Colleges have much to offer to support a successful college experience, but if students are not aware of these resources, it's as if they are invisible. Typically, freshman orientation programs are organized to introduce students to campus resources, offices, and organizations. But if it's a one-time quick hit, when freshmen are awash a tidal wave of information, don't count on much sticking.

Many colleges and universities have lengthened orientation to what is called "the first year experience" program. Throughout the year, freshmen participate in various activities and workshops that continue to familiarize them with campus resources. These first year experience programs are designed to retain students and ensure they make a successful transition to their college.

The 2010 National Freshman Attitudes Report found that more than half of entering students were receptive to a variety of assistance. Students expressed needs for career counseling, improving study and test-taking skills, getting tutoring help, and finding a part-time job. In fact, two-thirds of the freshmen surveyed indicated they would like help in selecting an educational plan that prepares them to get a good job. Campus organization fairs are often held in the first weeks of fall semester. They provide a concentrated way of learning about the array of college services and student clubs and activities.

Before a student leaves for college, parents may want to study the college's website and then carve out some time to discuss campus resources with their student. It really is educating the student to the way a campus is organized, and a comparison to their high school experience may prove helpful. Many resources will be listed under Student Affairs on the website. The areas usually included in Student Affairs are: residence life (housing and dining services), the career services center, health center, counseling center, student activities, Greek organizations, campus religious organizations, student clubs, financial aid, recreational activities, student employment, internship programs, community service and service (experiential) learning programs.

Additional resources address the special needs of diversity groups such as multicultural student affairs, LGBT programs, women's center, international student affairs, and students with disabilities. Others may be connected to Academic Affairs, such as an academic success center, tutoring services, the writing center, honors program, international study programs, undergraduate research opportunities, and the faculty advisor program. Finally, some resources are in administrative areas such as public safety (campus security and parking), the registrar, computer services, the library, and admissions and enrollment management.

Acclimating to a campus environment is like acclimating to a new town or city with all of its services. Students need this practical introduction. It's also safe to assume that they won't remember all of the resources available to help them, so knowing a few key people on campus who do, and can point the student in the right direction is critical:

Counseling Center and Career Services
If students are undecided about their choice of major and career direction, it's important to make meeting with a professional in the counseling center or career services office a top priority when they arrive on campus. These professionals can teach students how to explore careers and college majors and help them through the decision process. Having a career direction while in college is critical for students who want a more positive college experience and a more successful launch into a career upon graduation. Establishing a relationship with staff in the career services office as a freshman, even if the student has chosen a major and career goal, is beneficial. Career services staff often coordinate student employment and internships, and offer workshops in resume writing, interviewing and job search. Make it a first stop instead of the last stop before graduation, and the strategy will pay off.

When students have emotional, interpersonal or academic concerns, the counseling center is an excellent resource. It offers a range of services to help students through these rough spots of life. Counseling staff are experienced in working with students on a short-term basis and may make referrals to community resources as necessary. The center typically offers workshops on wellness topics such as relationships, study skills, stress management, eating disorders, conflict resolution and diversity issues.

Academic Advisor
When students identify their majors, they are assigned an academic advisor. This is a faculty member in the department of their major. A meeting once every semester with an advisor will assist with course decisions and help students stay on track for meeting graduation requirements, which can be very complex and confusing. Students who do not meet with their advisor can run into trouble getting into needed courses and graduation time lines can slip, costing money and time.

Residence Hall Staff
Whether they are called Resident Assistant, Resident Advisor or Community Advisor, the student leaders living on residence hall floors are placed there to assist students in a variety of ways. They are trained and knowledgeable about the campus and its myriad resources. RAs or CAs, as they are called, are invaluable and conveniently located, often just a few door down the hallway. They can also draw on the knowledge of the professional staff living in the residence hall as well.

The Office of the Ombudsman
Some campuses have established an office of the "ombudsman." It's a strange job title, Scandinavian in origin. But what it means for students is a person who can listen confidentially, remain objective, and investigate and resolve situations. Ombudsmen (and women) know the campus and community well, develop options for problem resolution, and make appropriate referrals. When students get frustrated trying to get an answer to a question and feel they are getting the run-around, someone from the ombudsman's office can cut the red tape and get the job done. Staff members are also trained in constructive conflict resolution. The ombudsman office is available to the larger campus community of faculty and staff as well as students.

College campuses today have more support resources and staff than ever to address student needs and concerns. Tuition supports these extensive services, so students should use them frequently to ensure they sustain their success. The key for students is to jump on a situation at the beginning, not wait until it becomes a huge problem with many ramifications. Parents who keep connected with their son or daughter in a balanced way can listen for clues that something is not going well and encourage their student to seek assistance on their own.

However, it may be hard for some students to ask for help. They may take pride in their growing independence and doing things on their own. Parents and other adults working with students can be instrumental in helping students understand that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but one of strength. If needed, they can role play with a student who is somewhat timid, providing an opportunity for the student to gather their thoughts and practice appropriate assertive behavior. Knowing when to reach out and advocate for oneself is a sign of maturity that students - and their parents -- can be proud of.

Related Articles:

When Students Struggle
When a College Student Wants to Drop Out
How to Make College Pay Off
How Will College Be Different Than High School?

© Copyright 2011, Career Vision. Article may be reprinted with permission.

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