A warm welcome to our new and returning VanCougs! For some of you, university may seem like a sea of opportunity. For others, it may be a daunting mountain. Regardless of what category you belong to, you know that succeeding in school requires a lot of work. While no one can do the work for you, here are a few of the services offered on our campus with the purpose of assisting you throughout your journey:
1. Before you set off, don’t forget to grab a Cougar Card. Apart from it being proof that you belong on campus, the Cougar Card is your pass to pretty much everything on campus—printing, the fitness center, free food, etc. Money loaded on the card can also be used to purchase food at the campus cafeteria tax-free.
2. Chances are you will have to do some writing along the way. Do yourself a favor and stop by the Writing Center, located on the second floor of the Library Building, in order to get feedback on your papers and tips for improving your writing. The staff is friendly and may even offer you a cup of coffee. You also have the option of emailing a paper with a description of the assignment to van.writingcenter@wsu.edu to receive feedback.
3. The Quantitative Skills Center, located in room 102 of the Undergraduate Building, will help you if you are struggling with questions and assignments in a variety of subjects, including math, chemistry, physics, and statistics. They even offer drop-in math tutoring.
4. The Library is the hub of intellectual activity on campus. It provides students with a quiet area for studying, computer stations, up-to-date periodicals, and help finding scholarly sources for your papers. You can also rent headphones and checkout movies that may supplement your studies.
5. If a computer presents a challenge and you are not the most tech-savvy, find a Lab Assistant near you. These individuals are placed in every computer lab, not just to enforce lab discipline, but also primarily to give you technological support. Information Technology is also there to help with any problems that arise with technology equipment on campus, located in room 225 of the Classroom Building.
6. Now if you need a break from your intellectual labors, the campus has resources to help you recharge. The Fitness Center is located on the lower level of the Library Building and is free for students. Cardio equipment, free weights, and locker rooms are there at your disposal, along with fitness classes (from Barre to cycling to yoga) and 1:1 appointments with a certified personal trainer.
7. With the recent opening of Health Services, you can now get basic health care on campus. Health Services offers free basic care, including wellness screenings, vaccinations, and select health needs. To make an appointment, call 360-546-9238.
8. The campus also has six miles of scenic trails that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Also, keep an eye out for updates from the WSU Vancouver Recreation Program, which provides opportunities for involvement in intramural and outdoor activities.
9. You have fed your mind and soul, now the time has come to care for your stomach. The campus cafeteria may seem small, but it provides a good balance between healthy nourishment and deep fried goodies. However, on your first visit be sure to grab a couple of chicken tenders with honey mustard—the one thing alumni keep coming back for.
10. It has been a long day and you finally make the seemingly long journey to the parking lot. You want to get into your car and go home, but alas, poor student! Your keys are locked inside. Do not despair: Public Safety can help you unlock your car. Other services provided by Public Safety include jump-starting a dead battery and escorting you to your vehicle at any time. Call them at 360-546-9001.
11. And last but not least, stay informed on campus events and conversations by picking up a fresh copy of The VanCougar every two weeks. On behalf of our team, we wish you all the best in your journey here at WSU Vancouver!