Campus News

UGA commits to student support and wellness

A student studies on a bench on North Campus. (UGA file photo by Dorothy Kozlowski)

Multiple platforms and programs focus on supporting students

Community has never been more important at the University of Georgia than it has been in the wake of COVID-19. That’s why divisions across campus are investing in new platforms and programs to address students’ needs and help them stay connected.

As virtual instruction continues through the summer semester, UGA is providing these resources to continue inspiring and supporting the student body:

Enhanced academic support

In response to COVID-19, the Division of Academic Enhancement launched DAE at a Distance, which includes strategies for adapting to the new digital environment. The platform offers resources such as academic coaching, a noncredit course to aid in the online transition, and technology support, among others. Enterprise Information Technology Services also created a video with technology tips for incoming students.

In addition to expanding their online collection, UGA Libraries launched a webinar series to assist students in finding the resources they need.

Financial assistance

The Undergraduate Student Emergency Fund and the Graduate Student Emergency Fund were established to help relieve financial stress for students in need. Students can donate a portion of their refunded student fees to support these relief funds.

Student workers who qualify for unemployment benefits can learn more here.

 Tools to promote physical wellness

While UGA Extension specialists offered tips to boost physical activity during self-quarantine, other units across campus launched virtual activities, including a “workout of the day” from UGA Recreational Sports and daily yoga livestreams from Health Promotion.

The University Health Center has continued serving students via appointment and online, with access to curbside pharmacy pickup, and the launch of Be Well UGA at Home, an expansion of its Be Well UGA initiative, created in response to COVID-19.

Well-being programs

Be Well UGA at Home contains additional resources on nutrition, mindfulness and self-care for students. UHC’s UGA Healthy Dawg blog also provides information on wellness and shares student stories.

Student Affairs expanded its focus on well-being and success, expediting the launch of telehealth and other digital resources dedicated to a holistic approach to student wellness.

The department of psychology also produced a well-being guide to help students navigate the impacts of the pandemic.

Career readiness

UGA’s Career Center remains focused on students’ professional success, providing resources for students facing canceled internships, uncertainty while job hunting as well as advice about succeeding in a virtual workplace. They also offer virtual workshops, appointments, events and presentations.