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Colleges and universities offer a wide range of services to meet the needs of their students. These support
services help students in all facets of college life including academic issues, financial and career planning,
emotional well-being, social aspects, personal safety, and more. Unfortunately, many students do not take
full advantage of these services even though there are usually no costs associated with them. You are
encouraged to become familiar with what is available to you, so that you can make use of these valuable
services when the need arises.
The services common to most schools are mentioned below. The specific services offered by your college
will vary depending on several factors including the type of school you attend and the students it serves.
Again, become familiar with your Student Handbook; the information below is very general in nature and
may differ from what is available at your school.
Academic services
help you perform better in your classes.
Academic Skills Center
or
Learning Resources
Center
are the common terms used for identifying the place on campus where you can find:
• diagnostic testing services to determine your current level of ability
• tutoring services in different areas
• a math lab
• a writing lab
• a reading lab
Academic Advising services
provide you with guidance and assistance as you plan and complete your
academic program. There are two kinds of undergraduate advisors at a university, the professional academic
advisor and the faculty advisor.
Career and Placement services
assist you with deciding upon a career and finding a job upon graduation.
The placement center may also help with:
• part-time employment while still a student
• putting together a resume
• information about internships and cooperative work
• getting into graduate school
• preparing for an interview
Counseling services
help with your emotional and mental well-being. Counselors and
psychologists can offer professional help with personal crises, depression, difficult
relationships, adjusting to college, substance abuse, and addictions to name a few.
Services offered can be in the form of one-on-one sessions as well as workshops and
programs.
Disability services
facilitate learning for those who have special needs or are disabled in some way. The
federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ensures that all people have access to public resources,
thus eliminating discrimination on the basis of a disability. If you have a disability, look into what services
are available to you.
Financial aid services
assist with the financing of college. Financial aid counselors can work to see what
options might be available to you including various types of grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study
programs.