The Student Wellness Advocates (SWAs) are Carleton students who are employees of Student Health and Counseling (SHAC). SWAs facilitate health-related workshops and encourage Carleton students to lead healthy and balanced lives. SWAs also connect students with other peer leaders and make referrals to support staff on campus.

Core Programming Topics:

SWAs work closely with SHAC staff who provide medical and counseling services to Carleton Students.

The Student Wellness Advocate Program has undergone some important restructuring in the 2011-2012 academic year.

1. A Shift in Philosophy

• The name of the program has changed from Student Wellness Advisors to Student Wellness Advocates. This change in language reflects our desire to focus our efforts on educational programming that addresses the needs of Carleton students, large-scale information campaigns, and efforts that will make Carleton a healthier place for all students. SWAs will still be available for individual advising, serving as resources for students and liaisons to Student Health and Counseling. When we were called Student Wellness Advisors, we risked students assuming that we provided medical or psychological advice. We are advocates. We help students take responsibility for their wellness and we help students connect to professional support services on campus.

2. Structural Changes – The SWA Program is no longer residentially-based.

• Programming efforts now target all students, not just students housed in first year halls. Students, including Peer Leaders, may request SWA programs for members of their community. SWAs provide a menu of programs covering a range of topics and will also work with students to develop programs that meet their needs.
• SWAs can participate in Off-Campus Studies programs.
• SWAs hold regular office hours in Student Health and Counseling.
• SWA stalls have been moved to public spaces that are utilized by all students on campus.

We believe that these changes make the SWA program more effective, and in turn, make Carleton a healthier place. Educational efforts address drug and alcohol use, sexual health, stress management and resilience, and physical health, including nutrition, exercise and sleep. Our overall goal is to help Carls enhance awareness, skills, and knowledge that will lead them to make healthy choices at Carleton and beyond.

The program continues to evolve and we expect additional refinements during the 2011-2012 academic year. As we receive feedback and reflect on the future of the program, we welcome additional suggestions from the student body. Please email Drew Weis with comments and questions.