Wildcats helping Wildcats: Investing in financial health
Along with individual financial counseling sessions, Powercat Financial's peer counselors offer large group workshops to promote student financial well-being.
Financial well-being impacts all aspects of life. Whether paying for college, negotiating salaries or managing a day-to-day budget, finances can influence academic, physical and emotional well-being.
Financial well-being is a focus area of health and well-being at Kansas State University, and the Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs, or DASSA, works to reduce financial stress and increase financial literacy by connecting students to free on-campus resources that help them take charge of their finances and feel more confident in achieving their goals.
Peer financial counseling
Powercat Financial is K-State’s free peer financial program providing judgement-free counseling to all enrolled students. Peer counselors meet with students to discuss topics such as budgeting, student loans, understanding credit scores and transitioning to a career.
After taking time to understand students’ financial situations and goals, peer counselors then work to provide resources and skills to help students feel in control of their finances. Students can schedule appointments in Navigate.
Career readiness
The K-State Career Center is the student hub for career readiness resources. As students prepare for interviews, career advisors are available for interview practice, resume and cover letter reviews, and more. Students can also practice negotiation skills, helping them advocate for a fair salary as they transition from college to career. In the Career Closet, students have access to free professional clothing and headshot services, all available on a walk-in basis.
Holistic health services
Free, on-demand student support is available virtually through TimelyCare. The app provides 24/7 mental health support, scheduled counseling, self-care resources and basic needs assistance. Wildcats in crisis can call the CrisisNow hotline at any time by dialing 785-626-8878 — no app or appointment is required.
Lafene Health Center offers in-person, comprehensive health services, including primary care appointments, laboratory and pharmacy services, nutrition counseling, women's care and more. Office visits or consultations with a provider at Lafene Health Center are covered for students who have paid the student services fee. Services that have an additional fees are often available for a more affordable rate than through private practices.
Through Lafene Counseling or Psychological Services, or CAPS, counselors offer mental health support through individual sessions, workshops and group therapy, allowing students to find the best treatment for their needs. All consultation services at Lafene CAPS are covered by the student services fee. Learn more or register for a session by visiting k-state.edu/counseling/.
Essential needs assistance
Available to all students, Cats’ Cupboard has a variety of fresh and non-perishable food items and personal hygiene items — no income verification required. Students can get immediate access to the food and hygiene items at Cats’ Cupboard by showing their Wildcat ID each time they visit.
Confidential, trusted legal support
Student Legal Services provides free and confidential legal advice. The office assists with a range of concerns, including navigating the diversion process, addressing misdemeanor or felony charges, and resolving off-campus landlord-tenant issues. Learn more or schedule an appointment by visiting k-state.edu/legal.
DASSA provides an impactful, holistic K-State experience by aligning student life resources with academic support programs, enabling students to succeed inside and outside the classroom. To learn more about the ways DASSA supports students, visit k-state.edu/dassa or 122 Anderson Hall.
— Submitted by Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs