Students can meet with the Director of Social Services to discuss concerns such as:

• Stress, loneliness, or difficulty adjusting to college
• Family or relationship concerns
• Housing or food insecurity
• Financial difficulties
• Unexpected life circumstances
• Challenges affecting school attendance or academic progress

The director can help students understand their options and connect them with appropriate campus or community resources, including:

• Counseling and mental-health services
• Academic support
• Financial assistance and emergency resources
• Food and basic-needs assistance
• Housing and transportation resources
• Health and wellness services
• Community organizations and social-service agencies

Students do not have to figure everything out alone. The Director can help students:

• Identify the immediate concern
• Explore available options
• Develop a plan for addressing the situation
• Communicate with appropriate offices or organizations
• Follow up to determine whether additional assistance is needed

You do not need to wait until a problem becomes a crisis. Consider reaching out when something is interfering with your ability to feel safe, stay enrolled, attend classes, meet basic needs, or succeed at Alvernia. Asking for help is a proactive step toward finding solutions.

When you meet with the Director of Social Services, you can expect a respectful and supportive conversation. You can explain what is happening, ask questions, and work together to identify appropriate next steps.

Your situation is unique. The Director can help you understand which resources may be appropriate for your circumstances and connect you with the professionals or services best equipped to assist.

If you are unsure where to turn, start by reaching out to the Director of Social Services. You do not have to have all the answers before asking for help.