University Services: Do Incoming Students Value Them?

Incoming college students may have varying levels of interest in the services offered by their universities. While some students may actively seek out and utilize the available services, others may take them for granted or remain unaware of their existence. University services can encompass a wide range of areas, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, mental health support, and more. According to a survey by Inside Higher Ed and College Pulse, only about a third of students found academic advising useful, and even fewer felt that career services contributed to their success. On the other hand, community service is not considered a make-or-break factor in the college admissions process, but colleges are interested in the impact applicants have had on their communities through their extracurricular activities. Overall, it can be challenging to generalize the preferences and behaviors of incoming college students, as their interests and needs can vary significantly.

Career counselling

Incoming college students often have a lot on their minds, and career counselling services can be a great help to them. These services can help students make informed decisions about their future, and ensure they are on the right path to achieving their goals.

Benefits of Career Counselling for Incoming College Students

The Role of a Career Counsellor

A career counsellor will guide students through the decision-making process, offering suggestions and beneficial advice. They will help students decide whether to take up a job after college or pursue further education, and develop contingency plans if things don't work out as expected. For example, if a student wishes to alter their career goals after college, a career counsellor will help them decide if it is worth changing their career focus and advise on whether to pursue further education or apply for jobs.

The Transition to Post-College Life

The transition from college to post-college life can be challenging and uncertain for many graduates. Career counselling can help students navigate this period by providing guidance on various aspects, such as deciding whether to find a job or pursue higher education, and offering tips to make informed choices.

Tips for Incoming College Students

• Start early: Begin your job search 6-9 months before graduation. This allows time to research career paths, network, and apply for jobs.
• Prepare your resume and cover letter: Ensure these documents are well-written, professional, and tailored to the specific job you are applying for.
• Network: Build a strong network of contacts and mentors. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and connect with alumni.
• Consider internships and part-time work: Gain experience, build a network, and explore different paths before committing to a full-time job.
• Use online resources: Explore job boards, company websites, and social media platforms to research companies and job opportunities.
• Prepare for interviews: Once you secure an interview, research the company and position, practice common interview questions, and pay attention to your physical grooming.
• Be patient and persistent: Finding the right job takes time and effort, so don't be discouraged by rejection. Continue to build your skills and network.

Campus healthcare

Firstly, if you are lucky enough to have employer-provided family health insurance, it is recommended that you keep your child on that plan. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), dependents can be covered on a family plan until the age of 26. However, you will need to check that your child can access healthcare services in their college town under your insurance plan. Some universities may not accept external insurance plans, or they may be considered out-of-network, leading to high medical costs even for routine visits.

Many universities offer campus health insurance, often marketed as a student health plan. These plans are usually regulated by the ACA and cover the ten essential health benefits set forth by the ACA. However, it is important to note that some student health plans are deemed short-term policies and are therefore not required to be ACA-compliant. These plans can vary widely, with some offering comprehensive coverage, while others offer limited benefits with high out-of-pocket costs.

If you are considering a student health plan, it is essential to understand the coverage provided and any potential limitations. For example, private colleges and universities with religious affiliations may be exempt from providing certain procedures and coverage, such as access to contraception. Additionally, student health plans may not cover more significant healthcare needs, such as hospital stays, surgery, or serious illnesses. In such cases, you will need comprehensive insurance to cover these expenses.

To summarise, campus healthcare is a critical consideration for incoming college students. While student health plans can provide basic insurance coverage, it is important to understand the limitations and ensure you have adequate coverage for your needs. By reviewing the available options and considering factors such as location, eligibility, and specific healthcare needs, you can make an informed decision about your campus healthcare choices.

Networking training and events

Incoming college students can benefit from networking training and events, which are often offered as part of student services. These services are designed to help students maximise their chances of success by teaching them how to approach professionals both online and offline. Additionally, universities may organise regular events that link students with professionals, helping them build a professional network early on to increase their employability.

Networking can be exciting and daunting, especially for first-time attendees. Preparing ahead of time by researching sponsors, attendees, and speakers can help students gain a better understanding of their interests and goals for the event. Knowing what they want to gain beforehand can help them set goals and tailor their interactions accordingly. Creating a LinkedIn profile beforehand can also make it easier to connect and keep in touch with new connections.

During networking events, it is beneficial to introduce oneself authentically, showcasing one's background, experiences, and aspirations. Active listening is an important skill to practice, demonstrating engagement and understanding through eye contact, nodding, and follow-up questions. Viewing networking as a collaborative opportunity rather than a competition can foster a more positive and inclusive environment.

Following up after the event is also crucial to maintaining connections. Moving networking online by connecting on LinkedIn or other social media platforms allows students to continue building relationships and learning from their new connections. Seeking out additional networking opportunities helps students gain confidence and improve their networking skills over time.

Overall, networking training and events offered by universities can empower incoming college students to build valuable connections, gain confidence in their communication skills, and increase their employability prospects.

Student counselling

University life can present students with various challenges, such as adjusting to a new culture or city, managing academic expectations, dealing with relationship issues, or facing stress, anxiety, and depression. Student counselling services are equipped to help students navigate these difficulties and provide strategies for coping with their feelings. Counsellors are professionally qualified and experienced in working with university students, offering non-judgemental support and guidance.

In addition to individual counselling, universities may also offer group counselling or support groups where students can connect with their peers and share their experiences in a supportive environment. Counselling services may also provide workshops and mindfulness sessions on topics like stress management, time management, and exam stress. These workshops promote personal well-being and help students develop essential skills for academic and personal success.

Universities often have 24-hour crisis and emergency services available for students who need immediate support outside of regular business hours. This can include crisis hotlines, emergency medical services, and mental health crisis support. Students can also access online self-help resources and websites dedicated to student mental health, such as Student Minds in the UK.

Study training workshops

Incoming college students can benefit from the many services universities offer, and one of the most important is study training workshops. These workshops are incredibly valuable for new students, helping them to develop essential skills for academic success.

Through these workshops, students can learn effective revision strategies and time management techniques. They provide a great opportunity to gain valuable insights and advice on how to approach studying in a structured and efficient manner. This is particularly useful for incoming students who may be transitioning from a less rigorous academic environment or those who struggled with time management and organization in high school.

Additionally, study training workshops can offer guidance on how to engage with the university's academic resources effectively. This includes advice on utilizing libraries, accessing online databases, and navigating the university's learning management systems. These practical skills are essential for success in higher education, where independent learning and research skills are highly valued.

Furthermore, these workshops can provide a supportive environment for students to develop their critical thinking and analytical abilities. They may include activities that enhance students' ability to analyze and evaluate information, encouraging them to think beyond rote memorization and develop a deeper understanding of their subject matter.

By offering study training workshops, universities provide incoming students with the tools and strategies to succeed academically. These workshops empower students to take ownership of their learning and develop the skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

Frequently asked questions