While the GW community eagerly returned to campus this academic year, university officials recognize the stresses of the transition back. The pandemic is still ongoing, which caused uncertain times and interruptions while students were getting used to a new normal.
As it has since August, GW will be emphasizing community, resilience and empathy during the remaining weeks of this academic year by offering resources to help students get through the final exam period.
Among those resources are opportunities for academic assistance such as utilizing one-on-one sessions with student consultants at the Writing Center and finding available study spaces through Academic Commons. Managing stress and well-being resources such as counseling services and tips for strong sleep hygiene are also available.
For students in need of a study break, The Final Lap offers an array of events running from April 25 to May 8. The 41st-annual Chalk-In, which takes place April 26 at Potomac Square, is among them. This GW tradition allows students to de-stress through creative outlets while enjoying refreshments, music and prizes. Other stress relieving activities include chair massages, doodle sessions and breakfast breaks.
GW Today compiled a list of some of those helpful tips and resources, as suggested by the Office of the Provost and the Division for Student Affairs.
ACADEMIC RESOURCES
- Academic Commons. This centralized navigation system will help students access support on topics that include academic advising, available study spaces, class syllabuses and low-cost textbooks.
- Office for Student Success. This office oversees the implementation of academic processes and policies, special programs and support services to ensure students have the resources they need to thrive at GW and during final exam period.
- Writing Center. A division of the University Writing Program, this center offers free, peer-based support to students. Clients participate in one-on-one sessions with student consultants on their projects at all stages of the writing process.
- Disability Support Services (DSS). Students who need to request certain accommodations can visit DSS, which works collaboratively with the GW community to foster a climate of universal academic excellence while promoting disability culture.
STRESS AND WELL-BEING
- The CARE Team. All members of the community are allowed to submit a care referral for any student who may need additional support beyond assistance with classwork. Once referred, students are connected to resources through inter-departmental collaboration to provide them with appropriate and personalized outreach.
- Counseling and Psychological Services. Counselors provide a safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment for students to discuss concerns. No appointments are needed. Students can call 202-994-5300 to get connected with a clinician.
- The Sleep Foundation. Students can learn about how sleep hygiene supports their well-being, and they also call the Colonial Health Center at 202-994-5300 to speak to a staff member about sleep concerns.
EVENTS
- The FINAL LAP. Open to all GW students, these activities and events are designed to provide stress reducing opportunities. Events run April 25 through May 8. Some events require advance registration. The 41st-annual Chalk-In takes place April 26 at Potomac Square. Fountain Day returns on April 30 as the fountain on the Mount Vernon Camus quad is turned on and marks a way for the GW community to celebrate everything accomplished during the year while looking forward to new beginnings.
