Students are about to reach that midpoint in the semester. Upcoming midterm grades may be causing some stress because of efforts to improve grades or balance class and work. Students may also be looking at taking exams for their degree programs or entrance exams for graduate school. At Southern Arkansas University, the Counseling and Testing Center provides services to help students with their needs. There are two licensed counselors on staff who have a wide range of specializations between them including personal, career, and academic counseling.
It is important for students to understand that “counseling is not telling you what to do, how to feel, or who to be”. It is a free service available to currently enrolled students to help guide them to find the best solution to the concern or problem they are facing. Counseling can be provided on an individual or group basis. Groups include Single Parent Support Group, GLB Support Group, Grief Group, Personal Growth Group, and groups on management of time, stress, and anxiety. Consultation is also available.
The Testing Center also offers undergraduate and graduate testing. Undergraduate tests include ACT, PRAXIS, and CLEP. The GMAT, GRE, and MAT are also offered which are entrance exams for many graduate programs. These services do have fees that are determined by the testing administration.
Throughout the four years in which a student is in college, there will be times that they encounter stress or have to make a decision which requires thought and thorough examination. Encourage your student to utilize these services because in the long run they will learn new ways of thinking, strategies to problem- solving, and also have the chance to be listened to by a non-judgmental person who will allow them to examine the concern and the consequences of each choice thoroughly before the student makes his or her decision.
Written by Nicole Woods, Student Life Graduate Assistant
