By Mia McCauley, Student Intern
As we transition into spring semester, it’s important to highlight the resources available to help students during their transition back into academic life. A reminder that units within Student Affairs offer resources and services for addressing student concerns, providing student accommodations, and supporting all Badgers.
Office of Student Success and Support (OSAS)
The Office of Student Assistance and Support (OSAS) is a central campus resource for connecting students with appropriate campus and community support. The office consults with faculty and staff to support students of concern. Drop-in staff are available to discuss resources, options, and provide guides on common issues that may arise in an academic setting.
Bottom line, if you’re worried about a student, always fill out the Student of Concern Referral Form and staff from OSAS will reach out to the student. If you are ever unsure where to go, have questions, or would like to talk through a situation, start with OSAS at 608-263-5700 during office hours or send an email osas@studentaffairs.wisc.edu.
McBurney Disability Resource Center
If you have questions about supporting students with disabilities, contact the McBurney Disability Resource Center for instructor resources to support your role in providing accommodations for students. Resources for captioning, interpreting, and other accommodations are also available.
University Health Services (UHS)
If your concern is related to mental health, speak with a mental health professional at University Health Services (UHS). You can call during business hours and ask to speak to an available provider. You should also refer students to Mental Health Services or the UHS 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line. UHS also offers consultations to help you support student mental health.
Finally, Recognize, Respond, Refer offers training and resources for supporting student mental health, including email templates for reaching out to students.
*A reminder that if you see a student witnessing a mental health crisis and is in need of immediate assistance, or if this is an emergency, please call the UW–Madison Police Department at 608-264-2677, UHS 24/7 Crisis Line, or dial 911.
Student Conduct and Community Standards (OSCCS)
Academic and nonacademic misconduct can occur inside and outside of the classroom. Resources through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (OSCCS) will help you navigate the conduct process. If classroom behavior disrupts other students’ abilities to learn, please review the webpage “Navigating Classroom Dynamics & Disruptions.”
To support you in supporting our Badgers, view the comprehensive campus guides on supporting students, including how to talk to students you’re concerned about, address disruptive behavior, and understand verbal de-escalation techniques.