When students pay their tuition at Weber State University, they are paying for many things besides just classes.
The Stewart Library not only offers regular library services, such as reserving and checking out books, media and audio items, but they have a large amount of computers that are free for students to use, with printing services costing only 3 cents per page. They also have a video-game lab that students are welcome to use any time the library is open.
The Stress Management Lab is one of the services located in the Swenson Complex on the main WSU campus. Complete with massage chairs, a Chi Machine, a Biofeedback Machine, an inversion table, a light-and-sound machine, and iPads and iPods, the Stress Management Lab offers ways to unwind before or after a large exam or just a long day at class.
Besides the Stress Management Lab, the Swenson Complex offers other services to students a Wildcard. Students have access to a fully equipped gym, which includes a rock wall, racquetball court, full-size basketball court, and a track. At the gym, students are able to check out a wide range of equipment, from weight belts to basketballs. Students also have access to a variety of exercise machines and open classes, such as swimming and aerobics. Students can bring friends who do not attend WSU to exercise with them, for only $6 per visit.
“It’s a great way to relieve stress and meet other students, especially during the first week,” said Swenson Gym employee Cynthia Balzomo.
Ryan Thomas, associate provost and dean of undergraduate studies, advised that new students take time to go to the Community Involvement Center. The CIC gives students the opportunity to give back to their community. Through the CIC, students can plan service projects for class or just for their own personal growth. The CIC also offers awards and grants to students and faculty for outstanding achievements.
Another resource available in the Student Services Building is the WSU Student Health Center, a clinic where students and faculty can be diagnosed and treated for minor maladies and injuries. The center is also actively involved in common disease prevention through informative gestures. For a nominal fee, even X-rays are available when necessary. All currently enrolled students with a Wildcard are eligible for free care.
Similarly, the Dental Hygiene Clinic is a learning center where students working toward degrees in the dental field can hone their skills in regular dental upkeep, while students who have dental needs receive affordable care. Under the supervision of qualified experts, students can have their teeth cleaned and inspected right on campus.
A writing lab in Elizabeth Hall is open for students that might or might not be struggling with writing their papers. A group of experienced tutors can proofread student papers and provide tips for future writing with students on a drop-in basis. Students can also schedule appointments with tutors.
Located in the Student Services Building, the Career Services Center provides students with preparation for the future, which includes mock interviews, resume-writing, information for choosing the correct major, internships available by major, assistance with on-campus job placement, assistance with job placement after graduation, and access to other career-related material a student could possibly need. Counselors have made themselves accessible by appointment for any anxiety-inducing questions students might have.
“I really think there is (a student service) for everything you could need while going to school,” said WSU ambassador Ashley Ulrich. “Just the Student Services Building is incredibly important. Most people just go in to use the Testing Center and don’t even know about all of the things in there to help you through school. Incoming (and current) students should definitely know about all the help that is available, because there is just so much.”
Student Natasha Kooyman said she was surprised after learning about just some of WSU’s attributes.
“The only reason I haven’t really partaken in many student services is because I didn’t know about all of them,” she said. “I have been to the writing lab, and I feel it was really helpful. They were also really nice.”
As a sophomore at WSU, Kooyman said she is familiar with the apprehension incoming freshmen face while starting college.
“I think incoming students should be able to be comfortable at school,” she said. “It’s not as bad as it’s made out to be.”