Dear Students, we know the last 18 months have been hard. Returning to an in-person campus experience this semester was a shared goal that we all have been working towards. While we have indeed returned to campus, we are not 100% okay. Our staff have come together to brainstorm ways to support your mental health and reduce your stress and anxiety. Below are things we can do as partners in your education. Additionally, there are steps you can take to contribute to your wellbeing:
Take advantage of the offerings below that apply to you.
Email us through studentaffairs@mcla.edu and provide feedback on how we can continue to support you!
Use this form to share your suggestions of programs, initiatives, or possible changes in everyday
processes that can be adapted to help support you!
We care about you, your health and safety, and your success as a student.
Quiet Lounge
Sullivan Lounge will be open during Common Times, Tuesday and Thursday, 11:45am-1:00pm
for students to drop in for snacks, hot chocolate, water, care kits, and a place to
be.
Food Pantry
Recent inventory shows that our students are accessing the food pantry more than in the last several years. This resource will receive additional support in the following ways:
The Food Pantry hours will be temporarily expanded to allow for more access to students with evening commitments. Anytime the Campus Center building is open, the Food Pantry is open.
Access to the space will further be opened in response to student needs and our staffing capability. Students will not need a key, the door will remain unlocked.
To replenish the food pantry, Athletics will host a food drive at all home basketball
games.
COVID
Students have told us they feel anxious about the November break. In response, we are expanding the hours of Covid testing in the campus center, 2nd floor. No appointment is needed! Drop in Monday-Friday the week of November 15 to get a test before you take your break. Upon return, we'll keep the testing center open daily the week of November 29-December 03.
READING FOR FUN, PLEASURE, ESCAPISM...
You can download popular fiction and nonfiction audiobooks and ebooks for fun or escapist reading via the MCLA library. Search for and download the Libby app to your mobile device, and search for Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts / SAILS library network to connect to our collection. When prompted to log in, use your MCLA A number and password. Librarians are here to help if you have questions!
Student Athletes
To support the mental and emotional demands of student athletes, the following supports will be provided through the end of the semester:
The Director of Counseling will attend team practices to talk about resources available.
Contact information for resources will be posted in bathrooms and locker rooms.
“How to Help My Teammate”, a peer support program, will be implemented through educational
awareness.
Athletic Trainor, Jennifer Mailhiot will implement a mental health document for all.
Point in time surveys will be scheduled and given to students to check in and address
potential issues before they become larger ones.
Campus Police
24/7 Public Safety is committed to providing support to all students:
External Resources
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ)
Trans Life Line (trans)
Steve Fund (students of color)
The Brien Center 24/7 Crisis Services 413-499-0412 (local)
