Campus Resources Most Students Miss

Colleges spend large amounts on services for students, from libraries and labs to counseling and career centers. Yet surveys and staff will tell you the same thing: many students never use them. Some do not know they exist. Others assume that services are only for students who are failing, or feel awkward about asking. The result is that students struggle alone with problems that a free appointment could have solved.

Services vary by college, so check what yours offers. This guide describes common ones and how to use them. It is general information.

Libraries and librarians

Most students use the library to study, but few use its real strengths.

• Subject librarians help you find sources for papers and projects. Many offer one-to-one sessions.
• Research guides list databases and tools for your subject.
• Reserve and course materials may include free copies of textbooks.
• Interlibrary loans bring books and articles from other libraries.
• Study rooms, quiet floors and group spaces.
• Software, equipment and media, such as laptops, cameras and 3D printers.
• Citation help and workshops.

Ask at the desk, or book a research consultation. A librarian can save you hours.

Writing centers

Writing centers offer feedback on papers at any stage.

• Tutors help with planning, structure, argument, clarity and citation.
• They do not write your paper, but they help you improve it.
• You can visit with an idea or a draft.
• Many offer online sessions.
• They help students from all levels, including strong writers.

Book ahead for busy periods, and bring the assignment instructions. Our guide to adjusting to college-level coursework explains how to use feedback.

Tutoring and academic support

Tutoring covers many subjects.

• Drop-in help sessions for math, science, languages and more.
• Peer tutors, who have taken the course.
• Supplemental instruction linked to difficult courses.
• Study skills workshops on time management, note-taking and exam preparation.
• Study groups organized by the college.
• Language support for students studying in a second language.

Use tutoring early in the term, before problems build.

Professors' and teaching assistants' office hours

Office hours are among the most valuable and least used resources. They offer personal explanation, feedback and mentoring.

Academic advising

Advisors help with course planning, requirements and options. They can also connect you with other services. Meet yours each term, and use them as a hub.

Career services

Career centers are not only for seniors.

• Resume and cover letter reviews.
• Interview practice.
• Job and internship listings.
• Career fairs and employer events.
• Alumni networks and mentoring.
• Advice on majors and careers.
• Help with graduate school applications.
• Workshops on networking and job search skills.

Visit in your first year to explore options. Early contact makes it easier to find internships and plan experiences.

Health services

Campus health centers offer more than treatment for illness.

• Routine care, prescriptions and vaccinations.
• Sexual health services.
• Nutrition advice.
• Health education and screening.
• Referrals to experts.

Our guide to getting sick at college explains what to do when you are unwell.

Counseling and mental health

Counseling services support students with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships and other concerns.

• Individual counseling, often free or low cost.
• Group sessions and workshops.
• Crisis support.
• Peer support groups.
• Referrals to outside providers if needed.
• Stress management and mindfulness programs.

You do not need to be in crisis to use counseling. Many students use it to talk through ordinary challenges.

Disability and accessibility services

If you have a disability, health condition or learning difference, you may be entitled to accommodations.

• Extra time on exams.
• Note-taking support.
• Accessible materials.
• Housing adjustments.
• Assistive technology.
• Flexibility on attendance or deadlines in some cases.

Contact the office early, since it can take time to arrange documentation and support. Information is usually confidential.

Financial help

Money problems are common, and so are resources.

• Financial aid office: appeals, emergency funds and payment plans.
• Emergency grants or loans for unexpected costs.
• Food pantries and meal-sharing programs.
• Textbook lending and rental programs.
• Financial counseling and workshops.
• Scholarship and job listings.
• Student employment offices.

If you are struggling to afford food, housing or books, ask. Many students use these services, and there is no shame in it.

Legal, housing and consumer advice

Some colleges offer free or low-cost advice.

• Student legal services, for tenancy, contracts and other issues.
• Housing offices, for off-campus rentals and disputes.
• Ombuds offices, for conflicts with the college.
• Tax help clinics.
• Immigration advice, for international students.

Our guide on renting student housing explains rental basics.

International student services

International students have access to specific support.

• Orientation and cultural adjustment programs.
• Visa and immigration advice.
• Language partners and conversation groups.
• Community events and trips.
• Help with banking, housing and health insurance.
• Support for family members, in some cases.

Meet the international office early, and use it throughout your studies.

Clubs, recreation and wellbeing

Activities are resources too.

• Student clubs and societies, for every interest.
• Sports and recreation centers, including free classes and equipment loans.
• Outdoor and adventure programs.
• Arts and music spaces.
• Volunteering and service programs.
• Faith and spiritual groups.
• Quiet and meditation rooms.
• Gardens, green spaces and wellness programs.

Taking part improves wellbeing, builds friendships and relieves stress.

Safety services

• Campus security, with escorts, emergency phones and apps.
• Reporting systems for harassment, discrimination or assault.
• Support services for those affected.
• Alert systems for emergencies.
• Safety training and self-defense classes.

Save emergency numbers in your phone.

Technology and facilities

• IT help desks for accounts, software and devices.
• Free or discounted software.
• Computer labs and printing.
• Maker spaces, labs and studios.
• Equipment loans.
• Lockers and storage.
• Public transport passes and shuttles.

Ask what is available before you buy software or equipment.

How to find resources

1. Visit the college website and look for a student services section.
2. Read orientation materials.
3. Ask your advisor, resident advisor or professor.
4. Join student groups and social media pages.
5. Walk around campus, and note services.
6. Attend resource fairs.
7. Save key contacts in your phone.

Spend an hour in the first weeks exploring, and make a short list.

Overcoming hesitation

If you feel nervous about asking:

• Remember that services exist for you. Staff are glad to see students.
• Start with an email or a short visit.
• Go with a friend, for your first time.
• Ask a general question, such as what services are available.
• Remember that others use them too.
• Use confidential services. Many are private.

Using resources early shows initiative, not weakness.

A worked example

Imagine a student who struggles with her first research paper. She visits the library and books a consultation with the subject librarian, who shows her how to find sources. She then takes a draft to the writing center, where a tutor helps her structure her argument. She also learns that the library lends laptops, which solves a problem with her old computer. Her paper improves, and she tells her friends about the services.

She used three resources in one week, none of which cost her anything.

Common mistakes

• Waiting until you are in crisis.
• Assuming services are only for others.
• Not reading emails about services.
• Using only one or two resources.
• Not telling anyone about needs.
• Assuming that you will be judged.

A quick checklist

• Do I know where the library, writing center and tutoring are?
• Do I know where to find health, counseling and disability services?
• Do I know where to go for money, food and housing help?
• Have I saved key contacts?
• Have I visited at least one resource I had not used?

Questions to ask at a service desk

1. What does this service offer, and who can use it?
2. Do I need an appointment, and how do I book?
3. Is there a cost, and what is included in my fees?
4. Is what I say confidential?
5. What other services would you suggest for my situation?

Write down the answers, and save the contact details.

Telling others

When you find a useful service, tell friends and classmates. Many students never hear about resources until someone mentions them. Sharing information makes the campus community stronger, and it makes it easier for you to ask for help later.

Final thoughts

The resources at your college are part of what you pay for. Find them early, use them often and encourage others to do the same. Good support can make the difference between struggling and thriving.