Q: “Dear Vince, what are some strategies for coping with academic stress and maintaining mental well-being during challenging semesters?”
A: So, this is a really good question, and I appreciate how you worded this. Though it seems all college students go through some period of stress at some point during their careers, it’s important to note there are many ways those that need extra support can receive it.
The Mental Health & Wellness Center, located in Curtiss Hall 112, is intended to “support the Saginaw Valley State University student body through counseling, groups, workshops and consultation services for faculty and staff…Our staff members are licensed and experienced mental health professionals ready to help guide our students’ wellness,” according to their website.
The Academic Advising Center isn’t just for freshmen. Students of all areas of studies and years (within undergraduate courses) can receive professional academic support from an advisor who can help you with your schedule, supplemental programs, and more. SVSU students can also schedule advising appointments that much faster through the new MySVSU interface as well.
Saginaw Valley State University’s TRIO-SSS program is available to students who may be first-generation, income-eligible, or have a documented disability to help them through their collegiate career. The program describes themselves as “[providing] academic support and services to admitted and enrolled students at Saginaw Valley State University with varying needs. The TRIO-SSS program is a federally funded program through the Department of Education and free to all eligible students. Eligible students will receive holistic support through services such as priority course registration, mentorship, tutoring, financial literacy, counseling, and more. The purpose of TRIO SSS is to increase the rates of academic achievement, retention, and graduation among historically underrepresented students.”
Lastly, the Gerstacker Academic Commons (GAC) “offers all students’ free academic programs, services, and resources that provide thoughtful conversations about disciplinary knowledge, university culture, and student success. Located on the second floor of the library, the GAC is a welcoming and inclusive face-to-face and online space that connects students with peers and professional tutors who provide academic assistance in a wide range of courses and disciplines. We provide essential tools and support for students of all academic levels through one-on-one tutoring, review sessions, service learning, workshops, supportive study spaces, and print/web resources. As a space for collaborative knowledge making, the GAC promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion through fostering the academic and professional growth of all students, with attention toward mentorship, communication, critical thinking, and creativity.”
Giving students different options and ways to study allows for further success through their studies receiving their degree, and also gives other students the opportunity to help mentor and further grow as professionals during their undergraduate years.
Students can learn more at https:// http://www.svsu.edu/academiccommons/.
Though these are only a few examples, I hope these will steer you in the right direction for some of the resources that are available on SVSU’s campus.
