Reposted from Student Affairs<\/p>\n
The transition to college can bring new opportunities, but it can also introduce challenges related to mental health<\/a>, finances, belonging and overall well-being. To help students navigate that transition, Student Affairs is launching a Wellness<\/a> Assessment for incoming students that will connect them with re<\/p>\n Integrated into the New Student Orientation process, the assessment will measure student well-being across eight categories\u2014mental and emotional health, physical health and healthcare access, financial wellness, sense of belonging, basic needs, disability and access, help-seeking and resource awareness, and academic confidence. The survey will help identify student needs early and connect incoming students with resources and support services that promote well-being, belonging, and academic success.<\/p>\n Research has consistently shown that the first weeks of a student\u2019s college experience can be some of the most challenging. During this transition, students may experience their first significant mental health concern, financial hardship, or sense of isolation. By identifying needs early and connecting students with resources, Student Affairs hopes to help students navigate challenges more successfully and build a strong foundation for their academic journey.<\/p>\n \u201cThe goal is to move from reactive care to proactive support. This assessment is one of the tools that makes that possible,\u201d said Sherra Watkins, associate vice president for student health and wellness. \u201cSurveying incoming students allows Student Affairs to help students before they know they need it, so they do not have to reach a crisis before they get the support they need.\u201d<\/p>\n