Now that July is coming to a close, summer break is starting to wind down and students at WSU Vancouver are due to begin their classes in just a few short weeks. Starting a new semester is daunting – both new and returning students are enrolled in different classes that can present unfamiliar challenges. Although seeking help on campus might feel impossible sometimes, WSU Vancouver has plenty of support to offer – The VanCougar has compiled a list of resources to help those who need assistance, from essay writing advice to mental and physical health services.
The Library
The WSU Vancouver Library is open to students and faculty during the summer and throughout the school year. The library has plenty of comfortable seating and table options, making it the perfect quiet place to work on homework. Patrons are able to check out books and other resources from WSU’s large physical and online databases, or through programs such as the Interlibrary Loan service, where students can request materials not found in their local library. Computers and printers are available for use and librarians are always there to help answer research questions. To learn more about the library and its online resources, visit the library’s website.
The Student Wellness Center
The Student Wellness Center offers basic health and counseling services at no cost to WSU Vancouver students. Through Counseling Services, students can access confidential counseling from trained professionals. Several different types of counseling are available – such as individual or group counseling – and drop in appointments are welcomed. Health Services also partners with The Vancouver Clinic to offer basic health care – including wellness exams, treatment of illnesses, medications and prescriptions, several basic labs and more. To learn more about the Student Wellness Center, visit their website.
The Access Center
The Access Center provides accommodations for students with temporary and long-term disabilities. The Access Center is located in Classroom Building Room 110. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, click here.
Information Technology
WSU Vancouver Information Technology provides free technology support to students, staff and faculty. The IT Helpdesk is located in Classroom Building 225, and assistance is available in person, by email, over the phone or through Zoom. To see these resources online, visit IT’s website.
The Engaged Learning and Career Action Center
The Engaged Learning and Career Action Center provides a variety of services for students such as pre-major advising and New Coug Learning Communities, academic success workshops, career advising, study abroad information and many other academic resources. To learn more, visit their site here.
Writing Center
Struggling with writing that first essay back from a long summer break? The WSU Vancouver Writing Center, located in Library Building Room 203, is a free service available to all students and provides assistance with written assignments and papers. Services are available in person, on Zoom or through the Online Writing Lab. For more information or to use the OWL, visit their website.
Math and Science Skills Center
The Math and Science Skills Center is a free, drop-in service providing students with tutors knowledgeable in a variety of Science Technology Engineering and Math fields. Located in Undergraduate Building Room 102, MSSC has open study spaces and resources for students. To learn more, click here.
Student Financial Services
Student Financial Services helps students navigate the difficulties of paying for college by providing information about scholarships, financial aid, free resources – such as the “A-Z of Paying for College” workshop – and other financial literacy tools. For more information, visit the Student Financial Services homepage.
Office of Student Involvement
The Office of Student Involvement is a great place to visit for students who are looking to get more involved on campus. Engaging with the campus community is an important part of being a college student, and OSI is a great resource to facilitate campuswide connections. To view some of the opportunities available to students, click here, and check out a list of student clubs and organizations by logging into Coug Presence.
Fitness Center
The Fitness Center, located in the basement of the Library Building, is available to students, staff and faculty seeking a place to exercise. The Fitness Center has equipment such as treadmills, bikes, free weights and other useful equipment. They also offer fitness classes and equipment rentals throughout the school year. To see more, visit their website.
These are just a few of the services that WSU Vancouver provides to help its students succeed, especially during the beginning of a new semester. For a complete list of current student resources, visit the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment website here.
Sawyer is a senior studying anthropology at WSU Vancouver.