Student Support Network
Student Support Network
Want to learn who is involved with the Student Support Network? Find Out ....PDF
What is the purpose of the Student Support Network?
The Student Support Network is a component of the WPI Student Development and Counseling Center and has been initially funded by a national grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). SSN members are selected and trained to enhance student awareness of mental health and wellness throughout the WPI community. SSN members will be central within a supportive network of students trained and committed to improving the quality of life for all members of the WPI community. SSN members will also be given the opportunity to offer active and passive programming that will enhance the education, skill building, and personal growth to further fellow students' well-being, coping, and resilience. SSN members will disseminate information about the services provided by the Student Development and Counseling Center and decrease the stigma associated with seeking counseling. As student leaders reaching out to other students, SSN members serve as positive role models for the campus community.
What do SSN members do?
SSN members are given a wide variety of opportunities for both personal and professional growth. SSN members will be extensively and thoroughly trained in recognizing and describing mental health concerns and will assist their peers in locating appropriate resources either on campus or in the community. SSN members represent a network that raises awareness of mental health concerns among their fellow students. SSN members will be given the opportunity to provide programming on a variety of topics including and not limited to: recognizing and coping with depression and anxiety, developing healthy relationships, and stress management. Although they will not provide counseling, SSN members will enhance interpersonal and support skills which will help prepare them to function in leadership roles where they live, learn and work.
What are the expectations and responsibilities of an SSN member at WPI?
- SSN members will become knowledgeable about common mental health concerns of college students and be able to make effective referrals and increase help seeking behavior on campus
- SSN members are approachable, good listeners, good leaders, respected by their peers, and good communication skills
- SSN members are creative and are willing to look at problems from different perspectives
- SSN members will strive to be positive role models within the WPI community
- SSN members will maintain confidentiality of fellow SSN members, and other members of the community
What are the benefits of becoming an SSN members?
- Learn valuable skills that will help in furthering your professional career
- Help students in need by raising awareness of mental health concerns
- Become part of a community service group on campus
- Opportunity to meet new people within the WPI community
What happens and what are the requirements for SSN training?
Students are selected and supervised by the SDCC Outreach Coordinator and other staff members of the Student Development and Counseling Center and must attend six scheduled trainings throughout the term. Training sessions occur weekly for one hour and will cover topics including the nature of crisis and struggle, core support skills, recognizing and responding others' distress, common student mental health concerns and awareness of key supportive resources on campus. The training sessions are highly interactive and focused on real issues and concerns. SSN members are also encouraged to support other initiatives and activities organized by SSN including special interest sessions, peer education efforts and general advocacy to promote mental health on campus.
How do I become an SSN member?
SSN members are students at WPI who promote healthy lifestyles and supportive resources on campus. We seek energetic, compassionate, and creative students with good social skills and good judgment who are committed to educating others about mental health issues and resources.
Applications for the 2009 B-term training will be accepted through September 30. You can submit your application electronically by filling out the application below. Your application must be received by September 30 to be considered. Applications are reviewed by the Outreach Coordinator who will then contact you to schedule an interview before the end of A term. You will be notified about your status in the program prior to the start of B term.
SSN Application
Questions?
Please Contact:
Student Development and Counseling Center
sdcc@wpi.edu
x 5540
Maintained by webmaster@wpi.eduLast modified: November 12, 2009 13:58:37