Beginning a new semester can feel both exciting and overwhelming for new students. Fortunately, BYU–Hawaii offers a range of support services to help students thrive academically, emotionally, physically, and socially. Here are five essential resources, along with tips on how to use them effectively.
1. Use the Center for Academic Success to Build Strong Study Skills
The Center for Academic Success (CAS) offers personalized tutoring and academic coaching, including writing support, learning strategies, coaching sessions, and peer mentoring and student-success workshops on topics such as time management, test anxiety, and note-taking. Workshops include video segments students can complete online, and once they log an hour, they can stop by CAS for a treat.
Tip for students: Don’t wait until midterms. Start early, attend a workshop, and schedule a mentoring session to stay on track.
“We are here to help every student who wants help, needs help, or just wants a safe space to study or learn new tips,” said Becky Strain, academic support senior manager. “Academically, we grow, spiritually, we grow, and they work together to enhance your journey.”
Lavanya Sheela Mungamuri, a freshman from India majoring in health and human science and a student employee at CAS, said, “I personally feel it’s like someone is holding your hand and helping you walk toward success academically. They support students with time management, test taking, and even budgeting.”
2. Take Care of Your Mental Health With Counseling Services
Counseling Services provides confidential mental health support, including one-on-one therapy and online strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and more.
Tip for students: Seeking help is a sign of strength. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
“To be a good student, [you] need to be a healthy student; both physically and mentally,” said Kaeo Alo, a clinical counselor for Counseling Services. “Here at Counseling Services, we can support students in developing skills and routines that help them stay well and continue pursuing their academic goals and greater purpose in life.”
Michael Westberg, a senior from Colorado majoring in psychology and a peer mentor in Counseling Services, said, “On campus, mental health is human health. It’s normal to get help, and my advice is to go sooner rather than later. Counseling isn’t just for crises, it’s for building healthy habits.”
3. Stay Active and Connected Through Seasider Sports & Activities
Seasider Sports & Activities promotes physical, social, mental, and spiritual well-being through intramurals, open gym sessions, recreational classes, and campus events such as dances, movie nights, and socials.
Tip for students: Even if you’re not an athlete, get involved in something weekly, as it’s a great way to make friends and decompress.
“This is one place where it’s easy to have a good time, meet new people, and find balance,” said Reu Li, a junior from Fiji majoring in computer science and the movie and event specialist for Seasider Sports & Activities. “We host movie nights every weekend, along with dances and sports activities that help students relieve stress and connect with others.”
Leiloa Malala Apo, promotional supervisor for Seasider Sports & Activities, added, “It’s mainly to help students build relationships and strengthen their discipleship of Jesus Christ, preparing them for their families and communities back home.”
4. Partner With Your Academic Advisor to Plan Your Semester
Academic advisers guide students throughout college with help in course planning, registration, major selection, and academic progress.
Tip for students: Meet with your advisor early—preferably before registration—so you can build a balanced schedule and stay on track for graduation.
“The main reason to come see us is to create a plan or map of what you need to complete to graduate,” said Marilee Ching, academic advising manager. “We help students see the big picture and stay on track so they can make the best use of their time here and prepare to serve others after graduation.”
5. Prioritize Health Through Seasider Wellness and the Health Center
BYU–Hawaii offers both Seasider Wellness and the Health Services; two complementary services that work together to help students build lasting health habits. Seasider Wellness focuses on preventive care, fitness, and nutrition, while Health Services provides medical services and guidance for balancing school, work, and overall well-being.
Tip for students: Don’t wait until you’re sick. Use wellness programs proactively, whether it’s preventive care, nutrition support, or general health check-ins.
“Our body is a gift from God, and taking care of it allows us to serve Him longer and maximize our potential,” said Daryl Snelson, a senior from Malaysia majoring in health and human science and a wellness coach for Seasider Wellness. “Wellness is about stewarding that gift through nutrition, fitness, and healthy habits.”
Tori Cromarty, a senior from Canada majoring in health and human science and a Seasider Wellness coach, added, “Proper nutrition and fitness aren’t cure-alls, but they come close. At Seasider Wellness, we help students understand the physical and mental benefits of healthy living.”
From Health Services, front office supervisor Maelani Valentine emphasized, “Balance your school, work, and outside activities to reduce stress and nurture your spiritual self.”
One Last Tip
A successful semester isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about knowing where to go when you need help. By using these five services and putting yourself first, you’ll be well-positioned to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.