Dear GW students,
I hope your semester is off to an exciting and productive start! For me, this time of year is full of hope, renewal, and energy as our campuses become alive again. As you continue to settle in, please know that the Division for Student Affairs is here to give you the support you need in all aspects of your life at GW.
College comes with many challenges, from approaching your rigorous academic courses, readjusting to life on campus, making new friends, dealing with conflict, and so much more. DSA aims to provide you with tools for success as you navigate these experiences and learn to balance your wellbeing needs.
As we launch into the new semester together, below is a look at some of the resources available to support your overall wellbeing at GW.
I look forward to a successful year of connection, growth, and wellness. Follow @WellbeingAtGW on Instagram for more about events, resources, and helpful tips!
Raise High!
Colette Coleman
Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Connect with me on Instagram! @GW_DeanOfStudents
Manage Stress with Recreation and Fitness
- Looking to relax and unwind while getting active? Campus Recreation offers fun, casual opportunities for you to enjoy like outdoor activities, club and intramural sports, and meditation.
- GW students have free access to the state-of-the-art facilities at Lerner Health & Wellness Center and the West Hall Fitness Center on the Vern. Exercise with friends in a group fitness session or meet your wellness goals by working with a personal trainer.
Medical and Mental Health Services
- The Student Health Center’s medical team offers accessible, high-quality care and a wide range of primary care services. Book an appointment on your Student Health Portal.
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides GW students free, confidential, in-person and virtual counseling services, group therapy, and skills-based workshops. New this year, CAPS appointments can be scheduled on your Student Health Portal. This allows you to choose your preferred clinician and have more autonomy over your schedule with reduced wait times.
- The SHC also offers short-term psychiatric treatment and referral services.
- The Student Health Center partners with TimelyCare to provide GW students with free, 24/7 access to telehealth support. Get the care you need, on your schedule.
New Student Health Center Hours:
University Student Center: Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Merriweather Hall (Mount Vernon campus): Monday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Student Outreach & Support
- At GW, we aim to foster a community that cares and supports each other. If you’re concerned about a friend or want to be connected to resources at GW, submit a CARE Referral.
- When the unexpected happens, we’re here for you. If you experience financial hardship or food insecurity, we can connect you with resources like our student assistance funds and The Store, GW’s free food pantry.
For a comprehensive list of resources and services to support your overall wellness, visit DSA’s Wellbeing Resource directory.
Center for Interfaith and Spiritual Life
- The Center for Interfaith and Spiritual Life (CISL) welcomes all students for drop-in support, programs, and community building. The Center offers a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all religious and non-religious backgrounds.
- CISL provides resources for those seeking support within a specific faith tradition, as well as a compassionate presence during challenging times. At GW, chaplains of different traditions serve as a confidential resource for students. While not therapists, chaplains are available for conversation, guidance, and connection to additional forms of support, especially during times of distress.
- Prayer and meditation spaces are available on both the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses.
Policies and Reporting
- You are encouraged to become familiar with the Code of Student Conduct and the Code of Academic Integrity. These apply to nearly all students, whether graduate or undergraduate, on- or off-campus. (M.D. students have separate conduct and academic integrity policies. Law students have separate academic integrity policies.)
- Resources for reporting conduct, academic integrity, Title IX or other incidents are available on a centralized reporting form.
- New this semester, CESA will offer weekly workshops for students to promote their conflict management and academic integrity navigation skills.