Accessing University Resources: Student-Exclusive Or Open-Access?

University resources are often underutilized by students, but they can be extremely beneficial in helping you succeed academically and in your personal growth and career development. While some resources are exclusive to currently enrolled students, many universities offer various services to the general public, such as library access, career counselling, and recreational facilities. In this article, we will discuss the different resources that universities offer and how you can take advantage of them, even if you are not a student.

Academic advising

The benefits of academic advising include:

• Clear and intentional college planning: Advisors help students gain clarity on their path in college and beyond, allowing them to make informed decisions about their major and craft a college experience that aligns with their personal, intellectual, and career goals.
• Career preparation and opportunities: Academic advisors understand the requirements and curriculum offerings of different majors, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in various fields. They may also have industry connections that can lead to informational interviews, job shadowing, internships, and networking opportunities.
• Financial benefits: Academic advising can help students complete their degree within the standard timeframe, saving them money on tuition costs and student loans.

To make the most of academic advising, it is important for students to:

• Connect with their advisor early on: Building a strong working relationship with their advisor can help students feel more comfortable and ensure they understand each other well.
• Come prepared: Students should bring relevant documents to their meetings, such as transcripts, test scores, and prior documentation. They should also research their school's policies and procedures beforehand and come prepared with any questions they may have.
• Stay in regular contact: Meeting regularly with their advisor can help students stay on track and make the most of the guidance and resources provided.

Career services

University career services are a valuable resource for students and new graduates who are entering the workforce for the first time or pursuing a career shift. These services are typically offered by a dedicated department on campus to assist students in preparing for and finding a career. While the services are usually free for current students, alumni may also benefit from career services, although sometimes a fee is required.

Career Exploration

University career services can help students discover specific job positions that match their interests and abilities. They can provide direction and details about a variety of jobs through aptitude tests, self-assessments, and advising. This can be especially useful for students who are unsure of what they can do with their degree or are exploring different career paths.

Job Recruiting

Resume and Cover Letter Reviews

A career services department will assist students in preparing and reviewing their resumes and cover letters. They can help build a marketable resume that resonates with employers and offer guidance on writing professional cover letters.

Interview Preparation

Networking Opportunities

Financial Planning

Additional Support

University career services can provide support tailored to the unique needs of students, such as guidance for first-generation college students or those with special needs. They may also offer help with professional correspondence, such as LinkedIn profile optimisation, and provide resources for students seeking internships or other forms of experiential education.

Health services

University Health Services:

The scope of university health services extends beyond basic care and often includes:

• Diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries.
• Preventive health services, such as annual wellness exams and physicals.
• Physical therapy and nutrition services to promote overall well-being.
• Public health initiatives, such as promoting a healthy campus environment.
• Immunizations for vaccine-preventable diseases to protect the campus community.
• Responses to infectious diseases on campus to mitigate their impact.

Access to University Health Services:

University health services are primarily intended for enrolled students, and there may be eligibility criteria to access these services. However, in some cases, universities might offer health services to other individuals under certain conditions:

• University faculty or staff members may have limited access to specific services, such as travel-related immunizations, physical therapy, or public health programs.
• Individuals admitted to the university who require necessary immunizations or medical tests to enroll may be able to use health services.
• Participants in university-sponsored short-term activities, such as seminars or workshops, may have access to urgent care services with prior arrangements.
• Visiting scholars, researchers, or individuals enrolled in specific programs may become eligible by paying an access fee.

Health Insurance Considerations:

It is important to note that access to university health services does not always equate to comprehensive health insurance coverage. Many universities require students to have separate health insurance, and there are various options to consider:

• Campus health insurance plans: Universities often offer tailored health insurance plans for students, which can cost around $2,000 to $5,000 per academic year.
• Parent's health insurance plan: Young adults can usually remain on their parents' health insurance until they turn 26, even if they are enrolled in college. However, network restrictions may impact out-of-state students.
• Medicaid: Depending on their income and state regulations, students may be eligible for Medicaid, especially if they are independent from their parents' insurance.
• Private health insurance plans: Students can explore private insurance options, especially if they are studying abroad or have unique health needs.

In conclusion, while university health services provide essential support for students, understanding the eligibility criteria and insurance requirements is crucial. Students and their families should carefully review the specific health services and insurance options offered by their university to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare coverage during their academic journey.

Libraries and librarians

University libraries offer a quiet space to study, as well as access to a wealth of resources. Many universities provide online databases, journals, and search engines with research materials that are more in-depth than a simple Google search. Librarians are also on hand to help guide your research and point you in the right direction. Many campuses also have interlibrary loan programs, which allow you to request materials from another university library to be delivered to you on loan.

Campus gyms

While campus gyms are primarily intended for students, in some cases, non-students may also be able to access these facilities. For example, at the University of Nevada, Reno, non-students can purchase a guest day pass for $10 or a semester pass for $45 if they live with a student. Similarly, Pennsylvania State University offers a membership for alumni to access gym facilities for $500 per year, in addition to membership in the alumni association. However, this option has been on hold since the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is worth noting that campus gym policies can vary, and not all universities may allow non-student access. Additionally, some universities may require non-students to pay higher fees or have different access restrictions. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the specific university's gym policies to determine if non-student access is permitted and under what conditions.

Overall, campus gyms provide a valuable opportunity for students to engage in physical activity and maintain their well-being during their studies. While non-student access may be limited, it is worth exploring the options available at each university to determine if this is a feasible choice for non-students wishing to utilise campus gym resources.

Frequently asked questions