Student Services
Dean of Students Office
www.dso.iastate.edu
Dean of Students: Pamela Anthony, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Students: Keith Robinder, Ph.D.
The Dean of Students Office (DSO) at Iowa State University uses an integrated approach to support student-centered learning through personal, community and academic development culminating in a transformative experience. Reporting through the Division of Student Affairs, the DSO provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in learning beyond the classroom.
The departments that comprise the DSO are grouped within four intersecting spheres of influence: Student Success and Retention, Wellness, Social Justice and Inclusion, and Student Life. Within this context, the following concepts apply broadly across all four spheres.
- Community – The DSO creates an environment that encourages connectedness, belonging and positive interpersonal relationships.
- Advocacy – The DSO works on behalf of students to help them navigate the University community, and encourages them to find their own voice such that they can advocate for themselves.
- Action-oriented – The DSO provide a wide range of resources and services, and encourages students to use them to maximize their experience at Iowa State University.
- Outcomes-oriented – The DSO regularly assess our programs, resources and services to ensure they provide opportunities for holistic learning.
Although the individual departments are situated within a specific sphere, resources and services are provided across all dimensions of the DSO mission. This collaborative model illustrates the dynamic synergy with which all DSO departments merge to create and support a common community experience for Iowa State University Students.
Student Success and Retention Sphere
Academic Success Center; Hixson Opportunity Awards; National Student Exchange; Student Disability Resources; and Writing and Media Center
- Engage students in the learning process both inside and outside of the classroom.
- Provide resources and support to empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals.
- Collaborate with campus partners to encourage students in their persistence to graduation.
Wellness Sphere
Recreational Services (Facilities, Fitness and Wellness, Intramurals, Outdoor Recreation, Sport Clubs)
- Promote healthy practices across all dimensions of personal wellness.
- Encourage reflection to develop self-efficacy.
- Provide opportunities for renewal and positive change.
Social Justice and Inclusion Sphere
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Student Services; Margaret Sloss Women’s Center; Multicultural Student Affairs
- Create an environment that is safe, welcoming, inclusive, and respectful.
- Provide programs, services, and support for all students to support equity and access.
- Engage in intentional dialogue among diverse perspectives to foster personal development and social change.
- Advance a broadly-defined conceptualization of diversity that incorporates multiple (visible and invisible) identities.
Student Life Sphere
Greek Affairs; Judicial Affairs; Parents’ Association; Student Assistance and Outreach; Student Legal Services
- Communicate expectations and explain how individual and group behavior impacts the community.
- Provide formal and informal leadership opportunities.
- Equip students with knowledge and skills to succeed in college and beyond through employment and involvement.
- Encourage students’ participation in social activities and traditions associated with the Cyclone experience.
For more information see the individual DSO Department web sites.
Academic Success Center
www.dso.iastate.edu/asc
Director: Susan Rhoades, Ph.D.
1060 Hixson-Lied Student Success Center
(515) 294-6624
The Academic Success Center (ASC) is a collection of services and programs designed to help students achieve academic goals. The services available at the ASC include the following: course-specific group Tutoring services and Supplemental Instruction; individual Academic Coaching for students needing to improve study skills, time management, or address other academic challenges; and a one-credit academic skills class (Psychology 131). All programs are focused on helping students learn how to learn and achieve their academic goals.
The mission of Tutoring services is to enhance academic growth and success. Students can request tutoring support for any undergraduate course at ISU. Staff members recruit and train qualified peer tutors. Tutors meet twice weekly with their tutoring group (2 to 4 students) to facilitate learning. A minimal per session fee is charged monthly to the student’s U-Bill for tutoring sessions. Students may be eligible to receive financial assistance to aid with tutoring costs.
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a free academic assistance program for select, traditionally difficult courses. Peer SI leaders who have demonstrated competence in the course attend classes and facilitate at least three group study sessions per week to help students with what to learn and how to learn. A complete schedule of courses and sessions is available on-line at https://apps-dso.sws.iastate.edu/si/.
Academic Coaching provides one-on-one meetings with students seeking help in evaluating and correcting academic challenges. Students at any level are encouraged to seek academic coaching to develop skills such as time management, note taking, study skills, and test taking.
Psychology 131 is a one-credit “Academic Learning Skills” seminar designed to facilitate development of academic skills, behaviors, and attitudes. Content covers time management, goal setting and motivation, learning skills and strategies, the campus environment, and campus relationships. Class size is limited to allow for group interaction as well as individual attention.
Greek Affairs
www.greek.iastate.edu
Assistant Dean of Students and Director: Billy Boulden, M.A.
Assistant Director: Katy Cran, M.Ed.
B0355 Memorial Union
(515) 294-1023
Greek Affairs provides advising, consultation, and educational services to the fraternities and sororities at ISU. Professional staff and graduate assistants work with student leaders, members, and chapter advisers to provide support to the chapters and to advise Collegiate Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, Multicultural Greek Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Greek Week, Order of Omega, Rho Lambda, Emerging Greek Leadership Council, Greek Relations Executive Council, Greek Alternative Spring Break, and other student organizations and activities affiliated with the Greek Community.
Fraternities and sororities have been active at ISU since 1875. The 55 fraternities and sororities at ISU have more than 3,800 student members and represent almost 13 percent of the undergraduate student population. The Greek Affairs staff and local alumni work with each fraternity and sorority to ensure that the chapter is meeting the educational objectives of the university, their national affiliations, and the developmental needs of members.
Hixson Opportunity Awards
www.do.iastate.edu/hixson
Director: Debra Sanborn, Ph.D.
Assistant Director: Allison Severson-Haban, M.S.
1080 Hixson-Lied Student Success Center
(515) 294-6479
The activities and programs offered to Hixson Scholars are designed to promote the retention and success of these students. These programs and resources aim to develop a community of students and friends within the larger Iowa State community. Programs include the Hixson Seminar (University Studies 101), monthly activities, community service, Hixson Peer Mentors, and the Hixson Leadership Seminars (University Studies 311 & 312).
Judicial Affairs
www.dso.iastate.edu/ja
Assistant Dean of Students and Director: Michelle Boettcher, Ph.D.
Assistant Director: Sara Kellogg, M.S.
1010 Student Services Building
(515) 294-1021
The Office of Judicial Affairs is responsible for administering the university's student disciplinary process. Representatives from the Office of Judicial Affairs interpret university policies and conduct student disciplinary hearings for academic and nonacademic violations of the Iowa State University Student Disciplinary Regulations (http://policy.iastate.edu/policy/SDR ). As members of the ISU community, all students have certain rights and responsibilities. When an alleged violation of the Student Disciplinary Regulations occurs, a representative from the Office of Judicial Affairs gathers information related to the complaint, interprets general university regulations and guidelines, conducts student discipline hearings which ensure the standards of due process, and consults with faculty, staff, and students regarding student conduct issues.
Student discipline hearings are conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations as set forth in university policies and procedures. Disciplinary hearings are administered by a member of the Judicial Affairs staff, the All Greek Judicial board, or by members of the All-University Judiciary (AUJ) committee. The Office of Judicial Affairs also serves as a resource for anyone with questions regarding a student conduct issue.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Student Services
www.dso.iastate.edu/lgbtss
Coordinator: Brad Freihoefer, B.S.
1034 Student Services Building
(515) 294-5433
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Student Services (LGBTSS) Center is a resource center for all members of the university community to learn more about aspects of sexual identity and gender identity/expression. The LGBTSS Center is committed to providing information and education that enhances the educational experience and overall quality of student life on the ISU campus. The LGBTSS Center strives to increase the awareness of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Ally (LGBTQA) issues on campus by providing a safe space, as well as informational and educational programming, resources, and support services. Our vision is to promote a welcoming and inclusive campus climate for LGBTQA persons and their allies and to eliminate homophobia, transphobia, heterosexism, and sexism at Iowa State University.
LGBTSS Center services and programs include:
- Speaker's Bureau Program – Panel presentations where LGBTQA people and allies share their own experiences and present on a vast array of LGBTQA issues and encourage group dialogue.
- Safe Zone Program – Initiative to increase the visibility of allies on our campus. Displaying a safe zone placard sends an important message of a willingness and commitment to provide an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and support to the LGBTQA community at ISU.
- LGBTSS Center – A community center with a student lounge, computers, TV, DVD player, and over 1,000 resources available for checkout.
- Support Groups – Ongoing private, peer-facilitated groups designed to provide a safe, supportive community environment to discuss issues relevant to the group.
- Referrals – Contact information available for various campus and community resources related to sexuality and gender.
- Lavender Graduation – A celebration of the academic accomplishments of LGBTQA students that occurs in May each year
Margaret Sloss Women's Center
www.dso.iastate.edu/wc
Interim Director: Som Mongtin, M.Ed.
Sloss House
(515) 294-4154
The Margaret Sloss Women's Center promotes gender equity at Iowa State University for students, faculty, and staff. Through a feminist lens, the center advocates for individuals and groups, provides support, referrals, community, and programming; and maintains a safe space in the Sloss House.
The Women's Center provides:
- Programming on the topics of gender equity (Women's Equality Day, Margaret Sloss Gender Equity Award, Gender Pay Wage Gap, International Women's Day).
- Education and support for victims, survivors, and friends and family of victims and survivors of power-based violence including sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking (Violence Leaves an Empty Chair at the Table display, The Clothesline Project, offer referrals)
- Advocacy for students, faculty, and staff (Lactation locations, non-traditional and adult student scholarships, Secret Agents Board).
- Leadership and activism opportunities (Society for the Advancement of Gender Equity (SAGE) student organization, internship and practicum credits, volunteer experience, Women's Leadership Retreat, Womyn of Colour Network, The Vagina Monologues, Take Back the Night, and "Who Needs Feminism?" Campaign).
- A welcoming space with comfortable seating, computer and printing, television and DVD player, lockers, kitchen facilities that also serves as an art exhibit showcasing local women artists.
Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA)
www.dso.iastate.edu/msa
Assistant Dean of Students and Director: Kenyatta Shamburger, M.S.
2080 Student Services Building
(515) 294-6338
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) advocates for and supports Iowa State University’s domestic students who self-identify as African American, American Indian / Alaskan Native, Asian American, Hawaiian / Pacific Islander, Latina/o, and/or Multiracial.
MSA provides leadership through the development of programs and services that enhance the recruitment, transition, retention, and graduation of multicultural students. Working in collaboration with University partners, the office assists in fostering a campus climate that recognizes, appreciates, and shares a mutual understanding and respect for all cultures in addition to supporting students’ academic, cultural, personal, and social development.
Working with university departments and related organizations, MSA achieves its goals through the following programs:
Academic success for first year multicultural students through early outreach programs
- Academic Program for Excellence (APEX and APEXE) – An intensive eight week academic excellence summer program for entering first year multicultural students that prepares them for the collegiate environment.
- Multicultural Visits – Meetings and presentations scheduled with prospective students/families visiting campus, at high schools, and community colleges
Retention of multicultural students through academic intervention and social support programs
- Academic support – Access to free tutoring, study area, and computer labs
- George Washington Carver (GWC) Scholarship – A four year tuition scholarship awarded to incoming multicultural first-year students directly out of high school. The GWC Scholarship program also provides academic support, leadership development, cultural activities, and professional development opportunities.
- Multicultural Vision Program (MVP) Scholarship – A four year tuition scholarship awarded to incoming multicultural first-year students directly out of high school. The MVP Scholarship program also provides academic support, leadership development, cultural activities, and professional development opportunities.
- MLK Emergency Loan Program – An interest-free 30-day loan that addresses extenuating financial situations that may affect a student's educational goals.
- Professional Development Funding – Funding for multicultural students to attend regional, national, and/or international conferences, support for graduate and professional school admission tests, and student exchange opportunities that strengthen students' academic pursuits, develops leadership skills, or enhances ethnic /racial identity development.
Development of leadership skills for multicultural students through structured programs
- Black Cultural Center and Multicultural Center – These facilities provide meeting locations for multicultural student organizations, community groups, ISU faculty/staff and targeted multicultural student programming.
- Iowa State Conference on Race and Ethnicity (ISCORE) – A campus-wide event that provides participants with a better understanding of race and ethnicity in higher education; as well as skill development in conducting research and presentations.
- Men of Color Collective – A student-led initiative focused on leadership, support, and the development of multicultural male students at ISU.
- Multicultural Family Reception – A welcome event for multicultural students and their families introducing key ISU staff, faculty, and administrators.
- Multicultural Student Advising Council (MSAC) – A collective of Multicultural Student Organizations that provides an opportunity to learn more about others, increase collaborations, and build sustainable relationships that provide both support and future growth.
- Multicultural Student Programming Advisory Council (MSPAC) – A funding source for registered student organizations implementing programs and events that promote cross cultural collaboration at ISU.
- Welcome and Transition – A welcome event for multicultural students that includes a keynote speaker and sessions focusing on academic success and leadership.
- Multicultural Student Affairs Recognition Programs – Events that recognize multicultural students for their academic achievement, campus leadership, and graduation from ISU.
National Student Exchange (NSE)
www.dso.iastate.edu/nse
Director: Debra Sanborn, Ph.D.
Assistant Director: Allison Severson-Haban. M.S.
1080 Hixson-Lied Student Success Center
(515) 294-6479
Since 1968, National Student Exchange has offered students a domestic alternative to study abroad. What began with three campuses exchanging seven students is now 175 universities placing 3000 students a year. Iowa State University is pleased to offer exchanges in this program.
Since its founding, more than 80,000 students have participated in NSE. The National Student Exchange was founded as a counterpart to study abroad programs, recognizing that not every student is seeking a study opportunity outside the United States. NSE offers low-cost options for ISU students to study out-of-state, at culturally diverse campuses, with program compatibility to our campus.
Features of the National Student Exchange include:
- Access to additional courses and programs
- Exchange among university honors programs
- Multicultural opportunities
- Resident assistant exchange options
- Credits applied toward degree
- Tuition reciprocity across the United States
Exchange features and requirements:
- NSE campuses in 49 states, three U.S. territories, and seven Canadian provinces
- Duration of exchange can range from one semester to one calendar year
- Exchanges can occur in different academic and calendar years
- Students must be full-time during application and exchange
- GPA of 2.5 on a 4.00 scale required
Parents' Association (ISUPA)
www.dso.iastate.edu/pa
Advisor: Keith Robinder, Ph.D.
1010 Student Services Building
(515) 294-6054
The Iowa State University Parents' Association (ISUPA) serves all Cyclone families by promoting parent programs and communicating university resources to enhance students' experiences and success at Iowa State. Informational resources and services sponsored by ISUPA are open to all parents and families of students enrolled at Iowa State. ISUPA is an auxiliary organization of the university, affiliated with the Dean of Students Office. ISUPA is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of parents of current Iowa State students.
The ISUPA Board of Directors, along with members of the Dean of Students Office staff, sponsors several programs to help parents and families stay informed.
- Parents' Advisory Line (PAL) – Call 1-800-772-8546 or e-mail parents@iastate.edu for advice on how to help your student succeed or for assistance navigating university resources.
- Info for Parents and Families – Website for parents and families that provides a clearinghouse of resources and information, as well as links to various services for Cyclone families.
- Family Handbook – Information on academic and student life provided to all new incoming students and families during summer orientation.
- Relatively Speaking – A monthly e-newsletter for families of ISU students that keeps parents and families informed of timely topics and campus resources.
- ISUPA on Facebook – A social medial opportunity to build community and share pictures or advice with other members of the Cyclone Family.
ISUPA is funded by contributions and fundraisers, such as the annual discounted Football Ticket program for Cyclone Family Weekend. Through its fundraising efforts, the ISU Parents' Association is proud to sponsor several programs.
- Scholarships – ISUPA provides funding for several scholarships to help students and families finance the cost of higher education.
- Cyclone Family Weekend – ISUPA is a premier sponsor of the university's annual event for parents and families.
- VEISHEA – ISUPA provides additional funding for professional security services at ISU's spring celebration.
Parents interested in volunteering or serving on the ISUPA Board of Directors can find information and the application form at the ISUPA web site.
Recreation Services
www.recservices.iastate.edu
Director: Mike Giles, M.S.
Associate Director: Scott White, M.S.
Associate Director: Garry Greenlee, M.S.
2220 State Gymnasium
(515) 294-4980
Recreation Services strives to provide a holistic and diverse approach to health and wellness that encompasses physical, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, social, and emotional wellness. Recreation Services offers high-quality facilities and a wide variety of programs and services to promote a healthy mind and body and enhance the overall quality of the educational experience at Iowa State University.
Recreation Services offers five indoor facilities: Lied Recreation Athletic Center, Beyer Hall, State Gym, Forker Building, and the Ames/ISU Ice Arena. The Lied Recreation Athletic Center houses two running tracks, multiple basketball, volleyball, and racquetball courts, weight & cardio equipment, and a bouldering wall. Beyer Hall has basketball, volleyball, racquetball, and squash courts and features an indoor pool used for recreational swimming, competitive events, and special activities. State Gym offers basketball, volleyball, and badminton courts, two running tracks, an indoor pool, climbing & bouldering wall, and weight & cardio equipment. Outdoor space encompasses over 100 acres including an 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, softball, flag football, and soccer fields that provide the perfect environment for friendly competition.
Iowa State University has one of the largest intramural sports programs in the nation. With more than 40 different programs designed for individual, dual, team, and co-ed competition, the Intramural program has something for everyone! Some of our unique and popular programs include broomball, curling, flag football, dodge ball, euchre, volleyball, and badminton. Participate for the opportunity to win one of the most coveted items on campus - an Intramural Champion T-shirt! If you are looking for a higher level of competition, there are over 50 Sport Clubs designed to meet individual interests in a variety of sports such as rugby, soccer, water-ski, lacrosse, ultimate Frisbee, ice hockey, ski and snowboard, martial arts, kayaking, crew, mountaineering, weight lifting, and boxing. The clubs participate in regional and national tournaments, and many have coaches who supervise organized practices.
For those striving to improve overall health and fitness, our fitness program offers activities rich in variety and intensity levels. Certified instructors teach innovative, fun and safe fitness classes, including cardio workouts, kickboxing, cycling, sculpting, Pilates and yoga classes, along with deep and shallow aqua fitness workouts. Personal training sessions can be purchased to provide one-on-one training to enhance individual wellness. To stay interested and involved in a regular exercise, sign up for the Rec Miler program. The program allows you to earn "rec miles" for exercise and healthy habits and earn a variety of progress awards along the way!
The outdoor recreation program provides opportunities to ravel, attend a workshop, rent equipment, or climb the wall! Choose your landscape as you participate in one-day, weekend, or extended trips throughout Iowa and the nation. Trips cover a broad range of activities and locations such as canoeing in Iowa, sea kayaking in Alaska, snowboarding and skiing in Colorado, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, hiking and climbing in Utah and surfing in California. Instructional workshops are also offered on various outdoor recreational skills. Rent equipment for camping, canoeing, skiing, backpacking, mountain biking, kayaking and many other activities.
Finally, part-time jobs in Recreation Services offer students flexible hours, valuable skills, work experience and competitive hourly wages. Over six hundred students are employed as building supervisors, lifeguards, office assistants, trip leaders, climbing wall supervisors, fitness instructors, personal trainers, and intramural officials. Undergraduate and graduate students desiring to work in this healthy and enjoyable environment should visit our website for more information and application forms.
Student Assistance and Outreach
www.dso.iastate.edu/sa
Interim Director: Kipp Van Dyke, M.S.
1010 Student Services Building
(515) 294-1020
Student Assistance is a service in the Dean of Students Office that helps students navigate the challenges they may encounter at Iowa State University. Many students face difficult times during college. Unexpected life events, personal crises, mental health struggles, or academic difficulties are all examples of challenges that can interfere with college success. Student Assistance is an interdisciplinary student development model that supports retention by prioritizing students’ academic and personal success.
The Student Assistance staff supports, but does not replace, the function of other university personnel who serve many similar purposes. Student Assistance staff will often direct students back to the appropriate resources with guidance on whatever process students are trying to understand. Student Assistance helps students understand the University’s systems, explore resolution options, and make informed decisions.
- Informing – Student Assistance provides accurate and timely information on University policies and procedures. Student Assistance can identify the campus and community resources necessary to achieve positive outcomes for students’ concerns.
- Advising – Student Assistance provides advice about how to deal with any situation causing students difficulty. Student assistance offers guidance and coaching to enhance students’ capacity to succeed.
- Referring – Student Assistance provides referrals so students’ concerns are brought to the attention of the appropriate University official.
- Assisting – Student Assistance provides direct assistance navigating any difficult situation. Student Assistance empowers students by focusing on the facts, teaching skills, and offering encouragement.
- Advocating – Student Assistance provides guidance as the “Single Point of Contact” for students who report sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment, bullying, or similar concerns. Student Assistance staff can expedite changes in housing assignments and course registration; provide emotional support, facilitate the process for filing a formal complaint; and arrange for other services that will provide a safe and secure environment.
- Navigating – Student Assistance identifies the process(es) and provides direction for resolving academic and co-curricular concerns and grievances.
- Notifying – Student Assistance facilitates communication with faculty and staff when students miss classes due to emergencies or other extenuating circumstances.
The primary goal of Student Assistance is to help students succeed. Consultation and assistance is provided with concern for each student's personal well-being and educational objectives.
Student Disability Resources
www.dso.iastate.edu/dr
Director: Steve Moats, M.A.
Assistant Director: John Hirshman, M.A., Ed.S.
1076 Student Services Building
(515) 294-7220; TTY (515) 294-6635
Staff members in Student Disability Resources (SDR) coordinate support services that students may need in order to reach their fullest academic potential. SDR staff members coordinate reasonable accommodations and serve as a resource within the university community concerning students who have qualifying disabilities. SDR provides assistance, information, support, counseling, education, referral, and promotes disability awareness for students, faculty, staff, the Ames community, and the state of Iowa.
Vocational Rehabilitation
www.dso.iastate.edu/vr
1076 Student Services Building
(515) 294-5059
The State of Iowa Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services staff are also located within the Student Disability Resources office. Vocational Rehabilitation provides services to students who, based on medical documentation, have a disability that is a substantial impediment to employment. Rehabilitation services may include the following: medical assessment; vocational evaluation; counseling and guidance; special adaptive equipment or devices; financial assistance toward training; and job placement assistance. No direct fees are charged, but there may be some costs through involvement with services.
Student Legal Services
www.dso.iastate.edu/sls
Student Legal Adviser: Paul Johnson, J.D.
Student Legal Adviser: Michael Levine, J.D.
B0367 Memorial Union
(515) 294-0978
Funded entirely by the Government of the Student Body, Student Legal Services (SLS) is a legal aid office for students currently enrolled at Iowa State University and registered Iowa State University student groups. It is staffed by two attorneys who advise and often represent students in a variety of cases and are available for consultation with respect to most legal concerns.
The types of cases most often handled include:
- Family Law and Divorce
- Criminal Law
- Landlord - Tenant Problems
- Off-campus Employment Problems
- Consumer Issues
- Administrative Issues
- Notary Services
The services of SLS are available to students and registered Iowa State University student groups free of charge. Students must pay their own court costs and any out of pocket expenses.
SLS cannot represent students in fee generating cases, controversies involving student vs. student or student vs. ISU, or ISU student judicial matters; and generally does not handle felony defense or cases involving excessive time. However, consultation with an attorney regarding these matters is available.
Writing & Media Center
www.dso.iastate.edu/wmc
Director: Rachel Azima, Ph.D.
Assistant Director: TBD
300 Carver Hall
(515) 294-5411
The Writing & Media Center helps students become stronger, more confident writers and communicators. Trained undergraduate peer tutors offer tailored, one-on-one conferences for undergraduate students working on all forms of written, oral, visual, or electronic communication. Students are welcome to bring work from any discipline at any stage of the process, from brainstorming to polishing a final draft. The WMC does not "fix" or proofread papers; rather, peer tutors help students learn how to proofread, evaluate, and improve the effectiveness of their own work, whether it is a website, oral presentation, essay, or lab report.
Students can walk in to the WMC or sign up for 30- or 60-minute appointments in person, via phone, or online via the WMC's website. WMC services are free.
Student Counseling Service
Assistant Vice President and Director of Counseling: Terry W. Mason, Ph.D.
The Student Counseling Service (SCS) assists students in enhancing their academic success and personal well-being with a staff of professional psychologists and counselors. Services are available to help students sort through their feelings, strengths, and options to develop new perspectives and coping skills.
Services include:
- One-on-one counseling for any issue of personal concern, such as depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, identity issues, and other forms of personal challenge. Students may also receive therapeutic services to deal with more severe mental health issues.
- Couples counseling for ISU students and their partners during times of relationship difficulty.
- Eating disorders assessment and treatment for students concerned with eating or body image issues. Students receiving treatment for eating disorders might also work with physicians, nutritionists, and personal trainers as their needs require.
- Substance abuse assessments to help students determine the nature and extent of their alcohol or other drug use and the impact of this use on their well being. Counselors offer recommendations and referrals for any concerns identified through the assessment.
- Career counseling to assist students having difficulty choosing a major or making decisions about their future after college.
- Group counseling is offered to facilitate personal growth and social skills learning. A list of the current semester's groups is available on the SCS web site.
- A variety of outreach programs are also available.
Counseling services are offered at no cost to ISU students. However, a nominal fee for testing may be required. Nominal fees are also charged for uncancelled missed appointments. Counseling is strictly confidential. SCS staff will not release any information to anyone outside of the Student Counseling Service without the written permission of the client unless an imminent harm condition exists.
In addition to providing counseling and outreach services to students, SCS provides training and consultation to faculty and staff to assist them in addressing the psychological needs of students.
SCS hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Student Counseling Service phone number is 515-294-5056.
Student Support Services Program
www.dso.iastate.edu/sssp
Director: Japannah Kellogg, M.S.
2010 Student Services Building
(515) 294-0210
Student Support Services Program (SSSP), a federally funded program, provides academic support to eligible students and is designed to increase the retention and graduation rates of low-income individuals who are first-generation college students or individuals with disabilities. The needs of the students who are accepted into SSSP are thoroughly assessed through testing and counseling. SSSP participants receive personal and career counseling, along with academic advice, tutoring, and assistance in receiving financial aid.
Participants in SSSP are encouraged to work with an SSSP student mentor to become acclimated to the ISU environment. These relationships also encourage participants to fully access ISU resources. Study skills improvement sessions and basic skills instruction are provided in the areas of math and writing. In addition, cultural enrichment (i.e. theatre, dance, and musical events) and educational activities (leadership conferences, graduate/professional, etc.) are planned. These services are provided free of charge to eligible students after they are accepted into the program.
International Students and Scholars
www.isso.iastate.edu
Director: James Dorsett
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) provides a welcoming and supportive environment for international students and scholars, Iowa State University, and the Ames community. ISSO staff members orient and advise international students and scholars on university procedures, community resources, U.S. immigration regulations, and nonacademic personal concerns. ISSO intercultural programs, such as the Culture Corps, Friendships International, and activities developed with the International Student Council and dozens of international student organizations, bring international students and Americans together for mutual learning. We welcome volunteers to join these and other programs to help us maximize the international experience of students and scholars to the successful completion of their academic objectives and enhance their personal growth.
Thielen Student Health Center
Thielen Student Health Center is a full-service medical clinic in Ames, Iowa, that specializes in students. The clinic is staffed with physicians, advanced registered nurse practitioners and nurses. The medical team is available to care for your primary health care needs.
The clinic offers a full range of medical services including illness and injury care, women's health, allergy and travel care, immunizations, mental health care, laboratory and x-ray services, physical therapy and a full-service pharmacy. After hour service is available for urgent or emergency problems at McFarland Urgent Care Clinic or Mary Greeley Medical Center Emergency Room.
The Prevention Services department provides campus-wide leadership for a comprehensive approach to reduce health risks for students. In collaboration with our campus and community partners, they strive to foster a healthy campus environment and support the academic success of our students. Areas of focus include high-risk drinking and sexual and interpersonal violence.
The mission of the Thielen Student Health Center is to promote the optimal health of our university community by providing high quality, accessible, affordable and accountable health care that encompasses prevention, wellness and education and to support the academic success of the Iowa State University students while building healthy habits for a lifetime.
We provide an inclusive, non-judgmental environment for our diverse student body and are conveniently located on the corner of Sheldon Avenue and Union Drive, right across from State Gym.
Student Health receives no funding from the state of Iowa and relies on the health fee for approximately 50% of its operating budget. Please note that the health fee is not health insurance. All students are encouraged to maintain adequate health insurance coverage while enrolled at Iowa State University. Those taking 4 or fewer credits may still access services by paying the health fee. Spouses/domestic partners of students who opt to pay the health fee also have access to services.
Clinic hours:
Monday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-12 noon. Hours vary during breaks and summer session. Patients are seen by appointment. Please call 515-294-5801.
The University Library
http://www.lib.iastate.edu/info/6000
Dean of the Library: Olivia M. A. Madison, M.L.A.
General Information–(515)-294-3642
Library Hours–(515)-294-4849
The University Library provides extensive research collections, services and information literacy instruction/information for all students. Facilities consist of the main Parks Library, the e-Library, the Veterinary Medical Library, two subject-oriented reading rooms (design and mathematics), and a remote library storage building.
The library's extensive collections include electronic and print resources that support research and study for all undergraduate and graduate programs. Nationally recognized collections support the basic and applied fields of biological and physical sciences. Library holdings include more than 3,017,893 volumes and approximately 105,628 current serial titles.
The Parks Library includes four public service desks: the Help and Information Desk (H&I), the Circulation Desk, the Media Center (including Maps, Media, Microforms, and Course Reserve collections), and Special Collections. The library's instruction program includes a required undergraduate information literacy course as well as a wide variety of subject-based seminars on effective use of library resources for undergraduate and graduate students.
The e-Library, accessed through the Internet, provides access to local and Web-based resources including electronic journals and books, local collections, online indexes, electronic course reserves and guides, and a broad range of subject research guides. Assistance in using this vast body of electronic resources is available at the H&I Desk in the Learning Connections Center, on the e-Library through the Ask Us! link, and through individually arranged appointments with subject librarians.
The Parks Library has a limited number of semiprivate study rooms available for faculty, graduate students, and professional and scientific staff. They are intended for research and other scholarly activities that require extensive use of library material. Normally, assignments are made for one year at a time.
Student Answer Center
http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/AnswerCenter/
Students who have questions but are not sure where to find an answer may contact the Student Answer Center located on the ground floor of Beardshear Hall. A staff member will answer campus-related questions on the spot or provide referrals to other university departments as needed. Information may include registration instruction, financial aid status, or classroom directions. Students can pick up forms, information brochures, campus maps, or use one of the computers to log on to AccessPlus or e-mail. Questions can be answered by email at answercenter@iastate.edu or by phone 515-294-4469.
Career Services Offices
Agriculture and Life Sciences: 141 Curtiss Hall
Business: 1320 Gerdin Business Building
Design: 297 College of Design
Engineering: 308 Marston Hall
Graduate Business: 1360 Gerdin Business Building
Human Sciences: 131 MacKay Hall
Liberal Arts and Sciences: 202 Catt Hall
Veterinary Medicine: 2270A Veterinary Medicine Complex
Career Services is a coordinated network of career services offices offering a broad range of programs and services for undergraduate, professional, and graduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers. These services include career exploration, career development, experiential learning, and professional career search assistance programs. The goal is to provide constituents with life-long skills to assist with career development and exploration.
Programs and services are offered including online registration, position listing and interview scheduling; résumé referral; coordination of co-op and internship programs; workshops and seminars on career exploration, résumé preparation, letter writing, job search techniques, interview skills, applying to graduate and professional schools, and adjusting to the first job.
Each year career services sponsors multiple career fairs, which bring to the ISU campus hundreds of employers. The career services offices also coordinate on-campus interview opportunities. Each college career services office serves as a point of entry for students, alumni, and employers to the entire ISU network of coordinated, decentralized career services.
In addition to the college-based career services offices, the Career Exploration Service provides a variety of services to students who are unsure about their major or future career path. Students can work one-on-one with a trained career counselor, use the many books and electronic resources in the Career Exploration Center, or enroll in LAS 104, Personal Career Choice. All services are free for students and confidential.
Additional information on career services is available at www.career.iastate.edu.
Child Care
Child Care Administration, a unit of Human Resource Services, supports Iowa State University families by linking them with programs and services that can help meet their child care needs. The university child care coordinator is available to assist families in accessing services available both on the campus and in the community.
Child care programs located on campus include:
- Center for Child Care Resources: Assistance in locating campus and community child care services, 100 University Village, Suite 1010, 515-294-8833 or 1-800-437-8599
- University Community Childcare, Family Resource Center, 100 University Village, 515-294-9838
- The Comfort Zone: Childcare for kids who don't feel so good, 100 University Village, 515-294-3333.
- Flex-Care: Part time care for children of ISU students, 100 University Village, 515-294-9838.
- University Child Care Center at Veterinary Medicine, 1700 Christensen Drive, 515-294-2273.
- ISU Child Development Laboratory School, Palmer HDFS Building, 515-294-3040.
For more information about child care options, contact the university child care coordinator at 515-294-8827.
Veterans Center
Jathan A. Chicoine
Veterans Services Coordinator
3578 Memorial Union
Phone: 515-294-9801
Email: jathan@iastate.edu
The Iowa State University Veterans Center provides a comfortable space for veterans and military personnel to connect and find support for issues related to enrolling at Iowa State University, and also assists with finding resources to help these individuals with adjusting to life as a student. In addition, the center provides assistance to faculty or staff with questions about military protocol. For example, when a veteran deploys, the Veterans Center can provide resources to help explain the process so that faculty and staff can meet the unique needs of students who may have obligations of military service.
Students receiving military educational benefits must work with a Veterans Administration certifying official in the Office of the Registrar in order to be certified for educational benefits. The Veterans Center is not directly involved in the certification process, but works closely as a team with V.A. certifying officials in order to provide the best support possible to veterans and their families attending ISU.