Sparks blog: Understanding Campus Services

by Mr. Michael Wagner

To begin

When a student is living at home and going to high school, let’s face it, everything a student needs for survival is somewhat readily available. However, when going away to college that will change, quickly. It is important for students to know how to take care of themselves and understand where to find services that were once taken for granted.

There are a variety of factors to consider when students assemble the criteria, they will use in assembling a list of colleges or universities. One of the factors that I advise students to include in their research is the student services (also known as campus services) that are available while attending school.

The range

When researching and analyzing the types of services offered at colleges there is typically a centralized division that is responsible, normally called Student Affairs or Student Services or Student Support. Within these departments there will be a wide range of service offices such as:

Academic Support Services

Academic Advising (Registrar)

Admissions

Campus Security

Career Services

Counseling and Well-being Services

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Financial Aid

Health and Wellness Centers

Housing and Residence Life

Student Activities

Study Abroad

Writing Center

Additional departments

Deciding

As one can see there are many services available. It is vital that students research and become familiar with the types of services that are available and most importantly, not available at each university they are considering. It is also important to understand the procedures necessary to access these services. This is an area that is often not well considered but will greatly impact the student’s experience and will play a vital role in the success of the student during their college years.

Putting it to use

There are many situations that may occur when a student will have to reach out to one of these departments for assistance, to answer questions, or to solve problems that arise. It is important for students to thoroughly understand what the options are and how well the departments support students on campus. It is vital for students to research, analyze, and compare the support services available at universities to ensure that when the time comes there will be the necessary resources available for a positive college experience.

Michael Wagner, MAED is a founder and the Knowledge Pilot for Launch Education. Mr. Mike has assisted hundreds of students around the world on their college pathways.