Reposted from Student Affairs.
The transition to college can bring new opportunities, but it can also introduce challenges related to mental health, finances, belonging and overall well-being. To help students navigate that transition, Student Affairs is launching a Wellness Assessment for incoming students that will connect them with resources tailored to their individual needs.
Integrated into the New Student Orientation process, the assessment will measure student well-being across eight categories—mental 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.
Research has consistently shown that the first weeks of a student’s 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.
“The goal is to move from reactive care to proactive support. This assessment is one of the tools that makes that possible,” said Sherra Watkins, associate vice president for student health and wellness. “Surveying 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.”
Supporting students outside of academics ultimately helps them succeed in academics. When students have access to the resources they need to address challenges related to health, well-being, finances, and belonging, they are better positioned to focus on their studies and fully engage in the college experience.
Visit wellness.hub.utah.edu to learn more about Student Affairs’ health and wellness resources.