Grand Valley State University’s Dean of Students Office is encouraging students to get connected to the Division of Student Affairs and the resources they offer. Their current focus is on creating new fun opportunities for students to enjoy, such as their upcoming fall event, “Snacks and Relax,” which offers free donuts and cider to anyone who comes by to learn more about what the office can offer.

“For us, it’s about helping students get the most out of their experience at Grand Valley, whether that’s personally, educationally and, of course, in their future careers,” said Liz Chase, Student Retention and Special Projects Coordinator. 

Snacks and Relax is one of many events being put on by the Division of Student Affairs. It will take place Wednesday, Oct. 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center Lounge, and Thursday, Oct. 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the DeVos Center near Starbucks.

“This is the chance for students to come and snack on some donuts and apple cider and meet some of the staff from our division,” Chase said. “Anyone and everyone can come. My favorite part is meeting students and checking in with them on how their week is, seeing what some are their stressors are and maybe seeing what they are doing for Halloween.”

There will be a variety of staff at Snacks and Relax ready to engage with students and elaborate more about who is within the division and also about the services they offer. Some of these services include assistance with resume building and job search assistance through The Career Center, interview coaching, finding a place to live through Housing and Residence Life, community involvement, staying fit through Recreation Wellness, service learning activities and the list goes on.

The Division of Student Affairs contains 10 departments, each of which reaches out to connect with GVSU students, not only to provide them with support and guidance, but the resources to be successful and have an enjoyable experience while on campus. These departments include the Campus Health Center, Career Center, Children’s Enrichment Center, Dean of Students office, Housing and Residence Life, Recreation Wellness, Student Conduct, Student Ombuds, Office of Student life and University Counseling Center.

Within each department there are specific activities and events for students to participate in. There are 150 professional and graduate staff within the Division of Student Affairs to help students thrive.

“Between services and programming, we care about the student experience, and its important for us to provide opportunities and resources where students can be successful,” Chase said. 

The Career Center is one of the departments that reaches out to help students build the ultimate resume that stands out to companies. They also prepare and shape students for job interviews as well as help them navigate job opportunities that fit well in their career path. The Career Center provides multiple resources to give students the confidence and the right mindset they need in order to be successful and on track. 

“At The Career Center, students can come and get assistance with internships, job search, interview coaching and so much more,” Chase said.

Recreation and Wellness can be a fun way for students to get involved with staying active and in shape. Through joining a fitness program, sport or activity, students oftentimes build friendships and connections that last a lifetime. 

“Their main focus is on health and wellness while also providing a lot of outdoor activities and opportunities for employment,” Chase said. 

Students are constantly searching for something thrilling to do with their friends and a way to take a breather from studying. The Office of Student Life provides several activities and organizations that students can take part in and enjoy. They also promote engagement with communities through inclusive and designed programs, services, and environments. 

The Counseling Center gives students somewhere to turn if they are struggling or if something has been piling up on their minds.

“They work on a lot of prevention and education with students in terms of mental health,” Chase said. 

These are just a few of the many ways the Division of Student Affairs can play a huge role in students life throughout their journey at GVSU.

“Our goal with these events is to educate students about who we are and what we offer,” Chase said. “We want to make a connection so students can feel like they can come and take advantage of our services.”