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In addition to providing resources to our students, the Student Support Team is the reason behind this newsletter! At Stony Brook University, we believe keeping our parents involved and up to date on the latest campus news is just as important.
We caught up with the Director of the Student Support Team, Carolyn Stephenson to talk more about the resources Stony Brook University offers for both our students and families!
What is the Student Support Team and what do they offer our Stony Brook students?
Carolyn Stephenson: Our goal and mission is to empower students to overcome obstacles to their growth both inside and outside the classroom. Sometimes students may encounter unexpected challenges that could impede their ability to thrive while at Stony Brook, that's why we are here.
We are the team that is here to listen, support, and assist in coordinating efforts to help students overcome these challenges and get back on the path to academic success. We welcome any opportunity to meet with students to hear their stories and work with them to problem-solve and connect them to supportive campus resources.
Why does the Student Support team feel it’s important to keep our Seawolf Families connected to campus through the Family Connect Newsletter?
Families are the number one supporters of our students, and all of us on campus think of family members as an extension of our Seawolves!
We want families to be aware of all of the opportunities for engagement and support on Stony Brook’s campus! This newsletter is one of the ways to stay in touch and then pass some of that information onto their students, in case they missed it along the way.
What advice do you have for students who may be nervous about coming to the Student Support Team?
We understand it may be difficult to take that first step, but when students do land with us, they often feel an incredible sense of relief and support, knowing that they are not alone on their journey at Stony Brook. Our mission is to let students know they have been seen and heard, and we are with them as they navigate a challenging moment during their time at SBU.
How can our Seawolf families keep their student encouraged through the end of the semester and use the resources Stony Brook offers?
At Stony Brook, we use the metaphor of Salt Shaker Parenting to guide families on how best to support their student: sprinkle your child with support, questions, and love in a gentle, subtle way. If you see your student is hurting, take some time to gently check in to see if they are open to discussing what is troubling them. If they do let you in, make sure to be patient and let them take the lead on what they are comfortable sharing. If you are concerned they may need more help, make sure to share the Student Support Team’s information with them. We are here to listen and connect students to the appropriate campus resources for support which may include CAPS, Timely Care, or Campus Recreation and Wellness.
If you want to speak with a Family Services and Support Team member, please reach out!
The Family Services and Support Team is aware there may be times when a family member just needs to talk over a concern about their child, intending to gain a better understanding of the situation and resources that may be available. The Family Services and Support Team partners with family members in working toward student success!
To learn more about the Student Support Team and the Family Services and Support Team, click here.
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