SUPPORT RESOURCES

BUREAU OF STUDY COUNSEL
Mon.–Fri., 8:30 am–5:30 pm
5 Linden Street,
617-495-2581
Fax: 617-495-7680; email: bsc@fas.harvard.edu
http://bsc.harvard.edu

The Bureau of Study Counsel, Harvard’s center for academic and personal counseling, serves to foster students’ learning, growth, and development. The Bureau aims to help students make meaning of their lives; think critically; make thoughtful choices; develop a sense of voice and authority in their scholarship; cultivate healthy relationships; and thrive in a stressful, competitive environment by approaching their work and lives with authenticity, curiosity, creativity, and zest.

The Harvard College experience is one of extraordinary opportunity, which typically comes with heightened external demands and internal pressure. Through academic, psychological, and consultative services, the Bureau supports students in their efforts to develop their intellectual, emotional, and social potential. All students can benefit from such support in this challenging environment and during such transformative years of life. There is no charge to undergraduates for Bureau services, except for occasional nominal processing fees.

Bureau services are confidential. The Bureau follows the same policies and procedures of consultation and confidentiality as articulated for HUHS (see the section on "Consultation and Confidentiality," page 409).

   The first floor of the Bureau is accessible by wheelchair.

Study Counseling

The Bureau offers study counseling for students who have concerns about their academic performance, concentration, motivation, anxiety, or other aspects of their schoolwork. Study counseling encourages students to reflect upon the power and limitations of their current ways of studying, and helps them expand their repertoire of learning strategies and skills in areas such as time management, writing, exam-taking, note-making, reading, listening, and problem-solving.

Peer Tutoring

As a supplement to formal course instructions, peer tutoring is available through the Bureau in any subject or course, but particularly in mathematics, natural sciences, and languages (including English as a second language). Peer tutors are undergraduates who have done honors work in the courses for which they tutor, and are trained and supervised by Bureau staff. Peer tutors help students master the subject matter of a course and explore new ways of learning. There is a charge for undergraduate peer tutoring of $4/hour, which may in some cases be reduced through the Financial Aid Office.

Harvard Course in Reading and Study Strategies

The Harvard Course in Reading and Study Strategies is a fourteen-session non-credit course that helps students adapt their accustomed ways of reading and learning to the rigors of college-level work, with its heavy workload, unfamiliar material, understructured assignments, and demands for self-direction. Oriented around specific techniques, lessons, and practice exercises, the course is designed to meet several goals: to foster knowledge, understanding, and self-awareness about reading, concentrating, and studying; to provide practice in giving up old ways of approaching one’s work and learning new ones; to teach strategies of studying more effectively and efficiently; and to make possible a greater sense of purpose, engagement, and meaning in one’s experience of learning. Students find that they increase their reading speed (doubling it on average) without sacrificing comprehension. There is no homework other than for students to try out the strategies they are learning on the homework they already have for their current courses. The Harvard Course in Reading and Study Strategies is offered twice each term and once during the summer. There is a $25 undergraduate fee for the course; Harvard undergraduates who are on financial aid can apply for assistance through the Financial Aid Office.

Study Skills Materials

The Bureau of Study Counsel offers both on-line and paper materials designed to assist students with the perplexities and challenges of academic life. See the study support section of our website for an extensive array of materials, including on-line learning self-assessments; links to tips, guides, and other resources related to academic success; and books, articles, and workbooks on study skills and college life. (Available on-line beginning in Summer 2006.)

Previous Course Examinations

Reviewing course examinations from previous years is a useful method for discerning the sort of scholarship that is valued in a given course. Previous examinations can help orient students to the nature of a course’s inquiry and can provide material for review. Final examinations from previous years are available on the web at www.fas.harvard.edu/~exams. Students are encouraged to bring a copy of a previous exam to a counseling session to use as a reference point for talking about how to approach studying for and taking exams.

Workshops and Discussion Groups

The Bureau provides workshops and discussion groups on topics related to college life and work, such as assertiveness, time management, procrastination, cultural adjustment, relationships, senior-thesis writing, and preparing for exams.

Personal Counseling

The undergraduate years are a time of intense growth and development – intellectually, emotionally, and socially. College students struggle to form their identity, explore their relationships, develop their capacity for independent critical thinking and decision-making, master complex skills and materials, and determine their life/career direction. During the process of adaptation and growth, students encounter various academic, personal, and relational challenges that test the limits of their current coping strategies. Counseling helps students enhance their engagement in their learning and in their lives, develop new strategies and skills, and deepen their connection to what really matters to them. Many students appreciate that the Bureau offers a reflective space, apart from everyday pressures and demands, where they can have the sorts of conversations that enable them to find a sense of perspective, purpose, and passion. For students who need or request services beyond those provided by the Bureau (such as medication, specialty care, or ongoing mental health treatment), a Bureau counselor can help the student get connected to appropriate resources at the Harvard University Health Service (HUHS) Mental Health Service, area clinics, or local psychotherapists in private practice. The Bureau is a department of HUHS and information about students receiving services at HUHS may be shared between counselors/clinicians of HUHS departments for purposes of coordination and continuity of care.

Consultation

The Bureau provides consultation and training to students, proctors, tutors, resident deans, administrators, faculty, teaching staff, and other members of the Harvard community. Consultation generally focuses on issues of student development and college life, or on specific students or situations (within the bounds of confidentiality). The Bureau provides orientation, training, and supervision of peer counselors (in partnership with the Mental Health Services), academic peer tutors, and study center peer facilitators. Bureau staff members maintain affiliations with the residential Houses and the Yard, take part in House/Yard activities, and provide workshops or presentations by request on topics of current interest to students Bureau staff also serve as non-resident academic advisers to new students. Bureau counselors are available for confidential consultation to members of the extended Harvard community on any issue that affects students’ lives and activities.

Confidentiality

Students regularly speak with Bureau counselors about highly private and personal matters. As a department of HUHS, the Bureau shares with HUHS a commitment to affording students the maximum protection available by law to maintain their confidentiality, serve their best educational/developmental interests, and protect their safety and the safety of the community. Bureau counselors use their discretion and professional judgment to apply the strictest confidentiality protections applicable to each circumstance. One distinction of note is that the Bureau operates primarily in an educational context, while the HUHS Mental Health Service operates primarily in a mental health context, and so confidentiality policies and procedures may differ between the two services.

The privacy of records kept by the Bureau about students’ use of academic services (such as tutoring, the Reading Course, groups and workshops, etc.) is protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law which protects all student education records. Information related to a student’s use of counseling is also held to higher confidentiality standards under Massachusetts law that are applied to sensitive health or mental health information. This means that a Bureau counselor will not convey information related to a student’s counseling to any party outside HUHS (including the student’s deans, professors, or parents) without first consulting with and obtaining permission from the student. Counseling information may be shared without a student’s permission only in very rare circumstances, such as when disclosure is allowed or required by law to comply with a court order or to ensure the safety of the student or the community.

For more information regarding the confidentiality of health and mental health records, see the HUHS Notice of Privacy Practices, huhs.harvard.edu. For more information regarding the confidentiality of educational records, see the Handbook section "Education Records," pp. 72-74. Students with confidentiality concerns or questions are invited to consult with a Bureau counselor, 617-495-2581, or the HUHS Patient Advocate, 617-495-7583. Other references in this Handbook to HUHS and its confidentiality practices and procedures generally apply only to the HUHS Mental Health and Medical Services, and not to the Bureau.

ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION OFFICE
(formerly Student Disability Resources)
Louise H. Russell, Director
20 Garden Street
Tel: 617-496-8707; Fax: 617-495-0815
V/TTY 617-496-3720 (Services for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students)
Email: aeo@fas.harvard.edu
www.aeo.fas.harvard.edu

The University does not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in admission or access to programs and activities. Federal law defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits or restricts the condition, manner, or duration under which an average person in the population can perform a major life activity, such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, working or taking care of oneself.

The Accessible Education Office (AEO) serves as the central campus resource for Harvard College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) students with documented physical, emotional, and learning disabilities. Some students may just want to discuss difficult situations and not request any services at all. The process of serving students with disabilities in University-sponsored programs and activities is a collaborative one, with students expected to take the lead in self-disclosing to AEO in a timely manner, providing requested documentation to AEO, assuming responsibility for becoming familiar with AEO and University policies, as well as overseeing the effectiveness and quality of resources and services.

Students are encouraged to make initial contact with AEO upon admission or as soon as health-related concerns arise. Confidential discussions should occur between students and AEO as soon as possible to avoid service delays. Students may want to learn more about accessible transportation, housing, adaptive technology and other academic adjustments consistent with University policies by reviewing the website and contacting AEO directly. For a comprehensive description of AEO services, policies and documentation requirements, please contact AEO at www.aeo.fas.harvard.edu, aeo@fas.harvard.edu, or call (617-496-8707) Voice, or (617-496-3720) V/ TDD. Students who are dissatisfied with their accommodations may wish to exercise their right to submit a grievance and may refer to www.aeo.fas.harvard.edu for details about the grievance procedure.

HARVARD UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL OFFICE
Sharon Ladd, Director
Mon.–Fri., 9 am–5 pm
864 Holyoke Center, 617-495-2789
www.hio.harvard.edu

The Harvard International Office (HIO) serves the international community at Harvard by providing programs and services for international students, scholars, and their families. These programs and services include: orientation meetings and printed information to assist with adjustment to Harvard and living in the Boston/Cambridge area; advising and counseling on immigration regulations, social and cultural differences, financial matters, and personal concerns; referrals to other offices when appropriate; and the host family program for new graduate students. In late February/early March, the HIO sponsors tax seminars for international students and scholars. The HIO also purchases a software program CINTAX to assist non-residents with their tax obligations.

The International Office acts as a liaison between Harvard and a variety of public and private agencies in matters affecting the University’s international students and scholars. The office supports the activities of the various international clubs whose members include graduate and undergraduate students.

All newly admitted international students must visit the HIO before they register in their individual schools. They should bring their passports and entry permits or other evidence of their immigration status. The HIO encourages all international students and scholars to take advantage of its programs and services. An adviser is always on duty to help with any problem or concern.

All international students are urged to consult the HIO website at www.hio.harvard.edu frequently. Important announcements about changes in immigration regulations will be posted on the website as soon as the information is available.

   Wheelchair accessible.

OFFICE OF CAREER SERVICES
William Wright-Swadel, Director
Mon.–Fri., 9 am–5 pm
54 Dunster Street, 617-495-2595
www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu

The Office of Career Services (OCS) serves students and alumni/ae of Harvard College and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at all stages of their career exploration and planning. OCS encourages students to take advantage of its extensive range of programs and resources beginning with their first year at Harvard. In addition to assisting with career decisions, OCS can help students learn about internships, summer jobs, work abroad, graduate and professional study, and fellowships such as the Herchel Smith, Goldwater, Truman, Rhodes, Marshall, and Fulbright.

   The first floor of OCS is accessible to students with mobility impairments via the entrance at 52 Dunster Street. Short-term loans of library materials or other accommodations can be arranged for students with other disabilities. For special assistance, contact Susan Vacca at 617-495-8050.

Counseling

OCS career counselors are available either by appointment (for in-depth sessions) or on a ten-minute walk-in basis to meet with students to assist them at any stage of their career exploration and decision-making process. Counselors can help students to begin the process by identifying their skills and interests and incorporating this knowledge into their plans. They can also help students to develop the tools they will need as they present themselves to potential employers or internship sponsors: resumes, cover letters, and interviewing and networking skills.

Counselors have areas of expertise in the arts, business, education, fellowships, government, law, media, medicine, minority concerns, public service, science, technology, summer opportunities, and work abroad, as well as in general career planning. OCS can help an individual to develop a sense of direction.

OCS Library

The OCS Library contains information in both print and electronic formats on topics ranging from summer jobs and internships to graduate and professional schools, fellowships, career fields, and employers. Assistance in using these resources is available at the OCS front desk and from Susan Vacca, the Librarian, as well as from the OCS counselors.

Career Planning Programs and Services

OCS conducts meetings and workshops throughout the year to introduce students to the career exploration process and to provide information on specific career fields, employers, and educational opportunities. Résumé and interview workshops and videotaped mock interviews help students to hone their presentation skills. Walk-in ten-minute résumé (and cover letter) reviews are also offered every day.

A Career Forum sponsored by the OCS in the early fall provides an opportunity for students to discuss summer and career opportunities with employers representing a number of fields. The On-Campus Recruiting Program brings representatives from employers and graduate schools across the globe to Harvard to interview students for post-graduate opportunities. OCS also receives numerous job and internship listings from employers worldwide on a daily basis. A Summer Opportunities Fair is held in December and presents a variety of work, study, research, and public service summer opportunities.

The Harvard College Internship Program, administered by OCS in collaboration with the Harvard Alumni Association, offers students a three- to five-day "shadowing" experience with employer sponsors who are interested in helping students learn about their respective career fields. Students and alumni/ae can register for the OCS International list-serv to receive timely information about opportunities and events; see www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu.

International Experience Program

The International Experience Program (IEP) of the Office of Career Services provides extensive advising and resources related to jobs, internships, volunteer positions, and fellowships around the world. It also offers special programs including the Weissman International Internship Program, Kawamura Summer Fellowship Program, Arias Foundation Internship Program, and the Harvard Overseas Schools Teaching (HOST) program.

Fellowships Office
617-495-8126

The Fellowships Office at OCS administers nearly all fellowship competitions for the College that require institutional nomination (such as the Marshall, Rhodes, and Truman), as well as the majority of Harvard-based competitions. The Fellowships Office maintains current information on all of these and other competitions, as well as on general issues of grantsmanship, and it publishes an annual calendar of competitions and periodic editions of The Harvard College Guide to Grants. Students interested in fellowships for study, travel, work, or other projects, are encouraged to consult these resources and to call or drop by with questions of any sort. Individual counseling appointments are also available.

OCS Public Service Guidance
Contact: Gail Gilmore
617-495-2595

The Office of Career Services encourages students to engage in public service both during and after their undergraduate years. OCS counselors advise students interested in public service work in the US or abroad, and meet with students to discuss the most effective ways to pursue these options.

Workshops, career panels, and information meetings are scheduled throughout the academic year to help students identify their particular interests and formulate their public service plans. In addition, OCS maintains an extensive collection of resource materials, including paid and unpaid internship listings, summer and postgraduate job listings, and information about public service organizations and funding sources.

A number of public service fellowship programs are administered by the Fellowships Office at OCS. These include the Trang Ho Memorial Fellowships, the Lamont Public Service Fellowships, the K. J. Lee Family Public Service Fund Fellowships, the Carl and Lily Pforzheimer Foundation Public Service Fellowships, the Elliot and Anne Richardson Fellowships in Public Service, the Eric Ritland Memorial Fund Grants, and the Steiner Community Service Fund Grants. To learn more about these and other funding opportunities, students should consult The Harvard College Guide to Grants and meet with one of the fellowships counselors at OCS.

Newsletter and Publications

The OCSNews contains feature articles and information about career-related events and workshops, job and internship opportunities, fellowships, graduate and professional study, and international experience. It is published electronically biweekly during the academic year, and is available on the OCS website and through a listserv.

OCS also publishes guidebooks on career planning, funding opportunities, and various career fields. These and other handouts are available on the first floor of OCS.

OCS Website and List-Servs

Students can subscribe to career-specific list-servs and can access the OCSNews, the OCS Calendar, On-Campus Recruiting Program information, job and internship listings, and more career-related material by visiting the OCS home page at www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu.

HARVARD UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICES (HUHS)
David S. Rosenthal, MD, Director
75 Mt. Auburn Street
Appointments: 617-495-8414 or 617-495-2001
Nights, Weekends, and Holidays: 617-495-5711; TTY: 617-495-1211
www.huhs.harvard.edu

Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) provides high quality, comprehensive and confidential health care to students, staff, faculty and their dependents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Primary care and counseling services are available at the main health center, which is located at Holyoke Center in Harvard Square, as well as at satellite clinics on the Business, Law, and Medical School campuses. Behavioral health and academic counseling services are also provided at the 5 Linden Street location in Harvard Square. A range of other medical and surgical specialty services, including allergy, dermatology, ear nose and throat, general surgery, nutrition, obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, pediatrics, physical therapy, and laboratory and radiology services, are available at the Holyoke Center location. Also on-site are a comprehensive dental service, a pharmacy, an optical shop and a wellness/health education center.

Harvard University Student Health Plan
Member Services
Holyoke Center – 1st floor
617-495-2008
mservices@huhs.harvard.edu

The Harvard University Student Health Plan has two parts that work together:

1. The Student Health Services Fee (SHF) covers most services at the Harvard University Health Services (HUHS).
2. Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO (BCBS) is designed to complement the healthcare benefits available under the SHF and covers hospitalization, emergency care, and some services and procedures not available through HUHS.

Those students who have coverage under a different health plan that meets the Commonwealth of Massachusetts requirements may be eligible to waive the BCBS portion of the Harvard University Student Health Plan. All waivers must be completed on-line by September 30, for the fall and March 31 for the spring; no waivers will be accepted after these dead-lines. Before making this important decision, please review the Harvard Student Health Plan summary of benefits, limitations and restrictions and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts requirements, available on the HUHS website (click on "Student Insurance"). If you are unable to access the HUHS website and need to request printed forms, or if you have questions, please contact a Member Services representative.

Confidentiality and Consent

The confidentiality of all records and other medical information about patients at HUHS is protected to the full extent of the law and follows the ethical practice guidelines of the medical, psychiatric, and psychological professions. As of April 14, 2003 all aspects of HUHS medical records and patient-related electronic communication are in full compliance with HIPAA regulations. The same policies and procedures regarding confidentiality of records are practiced at the Bureau of Study Counsel (see Bureau of Study Counsel, page 402). HUHS records from the Mental Health Service are kept separate from general medical records. Records of both types are kept in secure locations within HUHS and are available only to the HUHS staff members directly involved in a specific case. Written authorization from the student is necessary to release record information to any third party except in highly unusual circumstances that are required by law. Any questions of concerns about issues of confidentiality or patient rights at HUHS should be addressed to the Patient Advocate at (617-495-7583) or patadvoc@huhs.harvard.edu, and students can also consult the Harvard Student Health Insurance Handbook on this topic.

HUHS and BSC clinicians, as well as the Accessible Education Office (AEO), may be called upon to consult with College residential officials and administrators regarding the impact of a student’s physical or emotional health on residence, on the necessity of a medical leave of absence, or on temporary or ongoing special arrangements or accommodations (see also the section on Effect of Health Issues on Dormitory or House Residence, page 330). Such consultations will ordinarily be conducted with the student’s express knowledge and consent. Hence, at the request of a student, or of a Resident Dean with the student’s knowledge and consent, HUHS or BSC clinicians or AEO may provide relevant information about the impact of a physical illness, disability, emotional difficulty, or other health condition on a student’s residential and academic life in conjunction with a student’s petition for residential or academic arrangements or accommodations. HUHS and BSC clinicians and AEO are prohibited from disclosing any information independently obtained or offered about a student’s medical or mental health condition or care that is irrelevant to the arrangements of residential and academic adjustments under consideration.

In certain circumstances it may be possible or advisable for HUHS or BSC clinicians or AEO to obtain a student’s consent to a disclosure of medical or mental health information. One exception to obtaining a student’s consent, at least temporarily, is the rare instance in which a student’s medical condition or behavioral disturbance poses a danger to the student or threat to others or to the community. HUHS or BSC clinicians or AEO may then disclose any relevant information to any appropriate person, including College officials, for the purpose of protecting the student, others, or the community from harm. Generally, even in this situation the clinician would make every effort to notify the student of the need to disclose and the reason for such disclosure.

It is generally useful for the College to know when a particular student has suffered a serious injury or illness, for such purposes as arranging academic relief or assuring that the student can return safely to residence. For this reason, it is the College’s policy that HUHS will normally inform the College when a student is admitted to or discharged from Stillman Infirmary or other area hospital and, in certain circumstances, when a student receives emergency care at an area hospital’s emergency department. In case of hospitalization, while HUHS will not share medical or mental health information concerning a student without that student’s consent in ordinary circumstances, HUHS will customarily notify a student’s Resident Dean or his/her designee (e.g., another responsible residential administrator) that a student has been admitted. HUHS will not, without the student’s consent, disclose any other information about the student, such as diagnosis or treatment, but will only inform the Resident Dean or designee of the fact of the student’s admission. This information is intended to alleviate the concerns of College officials as to a student’s whereabouts and safety, and to allow communication with parents in the event that the parents have been unable to locate the student.

In the case of treatment of the student in an emergency department of an area hospital HUHS will not communicate notice to the College of every referral or transfer of a student to a local emergency department, or of its knowledge of a student’s receiving emergency medical care elsewhere. Two circumstances that may call for HUHS communication involve safety considerations. First, if a Resident Dean, other residential official, or College administrator, who has reason to believe that a student is not in residence and may be in a medical facility, should contact HUHS regarding a student’s condition, the HUHS clinician may disclose only that the student is safe. Second, when, in a HUHS clinician’s medical judgment, a student is in a life-threatening condition, or is medically or psychologically unstable, or has sustained an illness or injury that will likely result in a hospital admission or require after discharge care, that clinician will so notify the student’s Allston Burr Resident Dean or Resident Dean for Freshmen or his or her designee (e.g., another responsible residential administrator). The clinician will provide no information about a student’s diagnosis of treatment, but only information regarding the student’s location (either in Stillman Infirmary or another medical facility), general medical condition, and prospects for return to residence. Students returning from emergency care or hospitalization ordinarily will be referred by the Allston Burr Resident Dean or Resident Dean for Freshmen to AEO for follow-up to assess the need for services and accommodations.

Rarely, a student may present to HUHS for urgent care who refuses to disclose his or her name for fear of privacy concerns. HUHS will make every effort to assure that student that the confidentiality of any medical records generated by such care will be fully safeguarded. If admission to Stillman is medically indicated but the student refuses to divulge his/her identity, HUHS will be unable to admit that student to Stillman. In such circumstances, the student will be transferred to the local emergency department. Thereafter, the student will need to follow the standard University policy on return to residence.

When a student who has been hospitalized or received emergency treatment decides to leave a medical facility against medical advice, a HUHS clinician may apprise that student’s Allston Burr Resident Dean or Resident Dean for Freshmen or designee of this decision, but only if in the clinicians judgment the student’s decision may pose a significant risk of physical or emotional danger to him or her, to roommates or suite mates, or to members of the residential community. The clinician will inform a College official of the student’s location or decision to leave a facility against medical advice. Depending upon the circumstances, the clinician may inform the College of the student’s risk of further injury or relapse, or possible threat to the student’s own safety or to that of others.

Patient Advocate
Holyoke Center – 1st floor 617-495-7583
patadvoc@huhs.harvard.edu

The Patient Advocate is available to assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, including:

• assisting individuals with arrangements for special needs
• interceding on behalf of patients who feel they have encountered a problem
• answering questions and concerns

All requests, positive comments and recommendations for improvement are welcome, and will be kept in the strictest confidence. Comment Forms may be submitted to any of the suggestion boxes located throughout HUHS or through the HUHS website at huhs.harvard.edu/PatAdvoc.

Special Needs

HUHS is prepared to meet the general and special health care needs of students, faculty, staff, and retirees with disabilities. Early contact with a primary care clinician is advised to establish a base for continuity of care during a student’s active stay at Harvard. A variety of access services are available through the Access and Disability Services Office, including sign-language and oral interpreters. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located throughout HUHS at Holyoke Center, and Stillman Infirmary shower and bathroom facilities are fully equipped for patients with limited mobility. The Patient Advocate (617-495-7583) is available to provide orientation to HUHS on an individual basis, assist individuals with arrangements for special needs, and answer any healthcare-related questions or concerns

Primary Care Services
Holyoke Center – 3rd floor
Internal Medicine 3 East: 617-495-2001
Internal Medicine 3 North: 617-495-8414
Mon-Fri, 8:00 am –5:30 pm

                                       * summer hours vary

HUHS is committed to providing each student with complete, coordinated health care through a working relationship with an individualized primary care team, comprised of a primary care physician (PCP), a nurse practitioner (NP), registered nurses (RNs), and health assistants. Our teams work closely with students to provide high-quality outpatient healthcare services in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. These include:

• Physical exams
• Office gynecology (tests, screenings, contraception)
• Evaluation of acute illness and injury
• Continued care of chronic medical conditions
• Immunizations and travel consultations
• Health promotion and disease prevention education
• Referrals to HUHS specialists

Physicians at HUHS are experienced board certified or board-eligible internists or family physicians who provide high-quality preventive and acute care. NPs hold advanced degrees and are board certified in family or adult medicine, and are trained to evaluate and treat many acute and common conditions, write prescriptions, order diagnostic testing and provide preventive care in consultation with the PCP. RNs provide initial assessment for medical problems, help to facilitate appointments and navigate the health care system, provide routine immunizations and offer advice on common health concerns and questions. PCP team members also help to coordinate any necessary specialty services both at HUHS and in the Cambridge/Boston area.

Students are encouraged to choose a primary care team if one has not already been assigned (as with new students) and should consult the HUHS website for a complete listing of primary care clinicians. Clinicians may be changed at any time for any reason. Students with chronic medical conditions are advised to establish a relationship with the primary care team early in the academic year. It will be helpful to provide copies of medical records of health care received at other facilities.

Appointments

Students may schedule routine and non-urgent appointments by calling the PCP team directly during regular business hours. HUHS makes every effort to accommodate any student who wishes to be seen on any given day for a medical concern or illness, and appointments are reserved each day to accommodate urgent medical concerns. Students may also wish to speak with a nurse prior to making an appointment to determine appropriate care and treatment.

Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance of a scheduled appointment by contacting the Primary Care team. HUHS reserves the right to charge for "no-shows."

Students needing to renew prescriptions are advised to call the Primary Care team at least 48 hours in advance to allow time to process the request.

Emergency Services

Any student experiencing symptoms of a medical emergency (e.g., chest pain, severe shortness of breath) should call 911 immediately. After-hours and weekend care for non-routine, urgent medical concerns or symptoms is available through the After Hours Urgent Care Clinic (see below).

Immunizations and Travel Health
617-495-5182

Required Immunizations

All students are required to comply with the Massachusetts Immunization law prior to registration. Team / triage RNs are available to administer routine immunizations, and students may term bill or pay by cash or credit card for any immunizations required. Complete information regarding required immunizations is available on the HUHS website.

Travel Health Immunizations and Information

HUHS provides immunizations and related services prior to foreign travel, including:

• expert counseling and advice
• review of CDC recommendations for travel
• review of individual immunization needs
• vaccinations
• prophylactic medication prescriptions

HUHS recommends scheduling travel health appointments six to eight weeks in advance of travel.

After Hours Urgent Care Clinic (AHUCC)
Holyoke Center – 5th floor
617-495-5711, TTY: 617-495-1211
Weekdays: 4:00 pm – 8:00 am
Weekends and Holidays: 24 hours

The After Hours Urgent Care Clinic (AHUCC) is open nights, weekends, and holidays for 24-hour urgent care throughout the year. A physician and one or more nurses are on duty, and other clinicians and technicians are on call; a mental health clinician and a psychiatrist are also on call 24 hours a day. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to call their primary care team or mental health provider for advice during regular office hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm). Ideally, students should use the AHUCC for issues that cannot wait until regular clinic hours. Students who feel that they need medical or mental health attention but are not sure as to the urgency of the situation are advised to call first to obtain advice from the nurse on duty. The entrance to the AHUCC is midway down the parking ramp beneath Holyoke Center, accessible from both Dunster and Holyoke Streets; students who require transportation to the AHUCC are advised to call the Harvard University Police at 617-495-1212.

Stillman Infirmary
Holyoke Center – 5th Floor
617-495-2034
24-hour care

Stillman Infirmary, the inpatient division of HUHS, is a licensed 10-bed hospital accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The infirmary is designed to provide short-stay care for uncomplicated medical and mental health problems, and certain post-operative cases. Admission to the Stillman Infirmary is based on clinical indications as determined by a student’s primary care team and/or the After Hours Urgent Care Clinic staff.

Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing Service
Holyoke Center – 5th Floor
Appointments: 617-495-2139; Information: 617-495-9629

Anonymous HIV counseling and testing is available at HUHS at Holyoke Center; no identifying information is required to make an appointment. A $10 fee for anonymous HIV antibody testing covers both pre- and post-test counseling appointments, but no student will be turned away due to inability to pay.

Confidential HIV testing is also routinely performed by HUHS primary care clinicians, often in conjunction with an overall risk assessment for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Call your primary care team to schedule an appointment or to discuss HIV testing or other STD screening.

DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND ACADEMIC COUNSELING
5 Linden Street – 2nd Floor
617-496-2053
9:00 am-5:00 pm

The Department of Behavioral Health and Academic Counseling (BHAC) unites the Office of Alcohol and Other Drug Services, Bureau of Study Counsel, Center for Wellness and Health Communication, Mental Health Service, and Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response in one department to better coordinate student-focused services. Below are descriptions of the services provided by each of these units.

Office of Alcohol & Other Drug Services (AODS)
5 Linden Street – 2nd floor
617-496-0133
Mon.-Fri. 9:00 am-5:00 pm and by appointment
www.huhs.harvard.edu/AODS

The Office of Alcohol & Other Drug Services (AODS) is a multidimensional resource for students, faculty, staff, and members of the larger Harvard University community, offering a wide range of programs and services aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with heavy, episodic drinking and substance abuse. AODS collaborates with students and staff throughout the University to create a comprehensive program focused on the health and safety of Harvard students. AODS also trains a select group of student-leaders to be Drug & Alcohol Peer Advisers (DAPAs), who act as health opinion leaders and peer resources for issues around alcohol and drug use. For more information please visit our website.

Bureau of Study Counsel
5 Linden Street – 1st floor
617-495-2581
Fall and Spring Term Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Summer Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm

The Bureau of Study Counsel is designed to help students fully develop their intellectual and emotional potential and to make the most of their time at Harvard. Academic and personal counseling is available on a confidential basis to help students adjust to the transition to Harvard, manage the challenges of an exciting and demanding environment, define their motivation and aspirations, and resolve conflicts and difficulties. Bureau services include academic peer tutoring, the Harvard Course in Reading and Study Strategies, and issue-focused groups and workshops on such topics as college adjustment, study skills, relationships, and other matters pertinent to student life (see page 402 for more information).

Center for Wellness and Health Communication
Holyoke Center – 2nd Floor
617-495-9629
Mon.-Fri. 9:00 am-5:00 pm
cwhc@huhs.harvard.edu

The Center for Wellness & Health Communication (CWHC) is a central resource focused on promoting the lifelong health and well-being of those in the Harvard community. The CWHC provides health and wellness-related education, information, programs, and advice in a confidential setting, including:

• Health promotion activities and wellness programs
• One-on-one health and wellness education
• Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and shiatsu
• Health education resource center and lending library
• Peer education and student health programs
• The Mind/Body Medical Institute

The CWHC also provides an "Ask a Nurse" line (617-998-HUHS [4847]) during regular business hours for information, guidance, and advice. The Center is prepared to meet each individual wherever they are on their journey towards a balanced sense of health and well-being.

Community Health Initiative

The mission of the Community Health Initiative (CHI) is to promote health and wellness within Harvard University through student-initiated programs and promotions. Community Health Initiative representatives are trained to serve as liaisons between campus resources, such as HUHS, and their residential community. As a student-focused resource, CHI members take proactive, holistic approaches encompassing the physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and environmental dimensions of health. Representatives gauge students’ specific health concerns, respond with information and preventive strategies, advocate for better health options for the students, and refer their peers to myriad campus and community resources. Past initiatives have focused on sleep, nutrition, and stress management, as well as yoga, tai chi, and massage therapy. CHI also has a special interest in education and advocacy regarding healthy relationships, sexual health, alcohol safety, and mental health issues.

Community Health Initiative - First Year (CHI-FY)

At the beginning of each year, first-year students who are interested in helping improve overall well-being for their peers are selected. CHI-FY representatives work with the CWHC, other CHI representatives, and the College to provide feedback about health and wellness issues, help plan and request programs, sponsor campus-wide events, and help promote various health-enhancing programs to first-year students.

Mental Health Services
Holyoke Center – 4th Floor
617-495-2042
Fall, Winter, Spring – Mon., Fri.: 8:00 am-6:00 pm;
Tues., Wed., Thurs.: 8:00 am-8:00 pm
Summer – Mon. through Fri.: 8:00 am-6:00 pm

The Mental Health Service provides 24/7/365 coverage to the Harvard community, offering counseling for a wide variety of concerns including:

• bereavement
• transitional issues and adjustment difficulties
• depression, anxiety, or stress
• concerns interfering with work or relationships
• sexual concerns
• high-risk behaviors around food, alcohol and/or other substances

Treatment options include individual psychotherapy, medication management, biofeedback, group and couples therapy.

All visits are confidential and mental health records are held separately from the rest of the medical record, except for information on medications and hospitalizations. For those who desire greater privacy, Mental Health providers are available at one of three non-Holyoke Center satellite clinics on the Harvard Law, Business, and Medical School campuses. Appointments may be made weekdays during business hours by phone or in person, and are scheduled within 24 to 48 hours of initial contact. For more urgent concerns, same-day appointments are available during regular hours of operation, and mental health clinicians are on call evenings, weekends and holidays. For further information contact the Mental Health Service or visit the HUHS website.

Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (OSAPR)
Harvard University
340 Holyoke Center
24-hour response line: 617-495-9100

The Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (OSAPR) provides confidential, 24-hour information, assistance, and support for those who have experienced sexual assault and related forms of interpersonal violence, including sexual harassment and relationship abuse. Services provided by HUHS and OSAPR include:

• Transportation to Harvard-affiliated hospitals and coordination of follow-up care as appropriate
• Assistance with resource referrals
• Explanation of options for medical and mental health care, reporting, and adjudication
• Consultation and support for friends, partners, and other relations of sexual assault
• survivors
• Educating the Harvard community about sexual assault, its prevention, and its impact

Students may access these services by calling or visiting the Office. All communications and services are completely confidential and no information about the victim will be reported to the police unless the victim requests it.

Peer Counseling

The Mental Health Service at HUHS, in conjunction with the Bureau of Study Counsel, oversees the training and supervision of five undergraduate peer counseling groups offering anonymous, confidential hotline and drop-in counseling throughout the academic year.

CONTACT
Thayer Basement
617-495 8111
Hotline and drop-in hours: Thursday to Sunday, 8:00 pm–1:00 am
www.digitas.harvard.edu/~contact/

Contact is staffed by Harvard undergraduates who have been trained as peer counselors. The Contact staff includes women and men of various sexual orientations, racial backgrounds, and religious affiliations – a diverse group prepared to assist a diverse community. All Contact staff members share a deep concern about issues of sexual orientation, sex, sexuality and relationships and are interested in discussion of these topics. They also maintain a rapidly growing library of books, pamphlets, news clippings, and magazines. Drops-ins are welcome to peruse materials in the office or to borrow them from the library.

Eating Concerns Hotline and Outreach (ECHO)
Quincy House, F-Entry Basement
617-495-8200
Hotline hours: Nightly, 8:00 pm–8:00 am
Drop-in hours: Sunday through Thursday, 8:00–11:00 pm
hcs.harvard.edu/~echo/

ECHO is a peer counseling group that addresses concerns surrounding eating, body image, and self-esteem. ECHO staff members are undergraduates trained to provide non-judgmental support, both for those dealing with these issues and those who are concerned about a friend, roommate, significant other or family member. In addition to staffing drop-in hours and a hot-line, ECHO staff members plan and produce outreach events for the Harvard community.

HUHS 5th floor
617-495-7561
Hotline and drop-in hours: Nightly, 7:00 pm to midnight
hcs.harvard.edu/~pcc/

Peer Contraceptive Counselors is a group of undergraduate men and women who counsel Harvard students about contraceptives, sexually transmitted infections, relationships, and sexuality.

RESPONSE
Lowell House Basement E 13
617-495 9600
Hotline hours: Nightly, 9:00 pm–8:00 am Drop-in hours: Sunday through Thursday 9PM to midnight
For 24-hour assistance: contact the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (OSAPR) 24-hour Hotline at 617-495-9100.
www.hcs.harvard.edu/response/

Response is a group of undergraduate women professionally trained to provide peer counseling on issues of rape, abuse, intimate violence, psychological and physical harassment, and relationships. Response staff members provide non-judgmental support, honest answers, and information, and are aware of resources on and off-campus for individuals in need of medical, legal, and/or psychological support. Response also provides outreach opportunities to the Harvard student community during the academic year.

Thayer Hall Basement
617-495 4969
Hotline and Drop-in hours: Nightly, 7:00 pm–7:00 am
hcs.harvard.edu/~room13/

Room 13 is the oldest peer counseling group at Harvard. It is staffed by a group of men and women; each night a male and a female peer counselor are available to listen and offer support on any issue affecting students. Room 13 staff members offer a supportive, sympathetic ear, maintain strict confidentiality, and welcome discussion of any concerns without criticizing or passing judgment. Room 13 staff members don’t claim to have any easy answers, but understand that sometimes it helps just to talk to someone who is attentive and truly cares about what one has to say.

Special Support

Life Raft
Memorial Church basement
617-527-0330
Wednesdays 12:00 – 2:00 pm
bgilmore@huhs.harvard.edu

Life Raft is a weekly bereavement support group for Harvard students, faculty and staff facing life-threatening illness or death, or the death of a loved one; it is also available to their family members and friends. This free, confidential service offers weekly drop-in meetings and is open to all members of the Harvard/Radcliffe community, including alumni, retirees, and former staff and faculty. The Life Raft group includes members of many ages from all areas of the community; discussions are ongoing and there is no obligation for continuous attendance. Students may contact the Life Raft coordinator by phone or email, and are welcome to attend at any time.

Dental Service
Holyoke Center – 1st Floor
617-495-2063
Mon., Fri., 7:30 am–6 pm; Tue.,Wed.,Thu., 7:30 am–8 pm;
Sat., 8 am–12 Noon

Good oral health care is an essential part of one’s overall well-being. The Harvard University Dental Service is conveniently located on the main campus and is open to all students on a fee-for-service basis. The Dental Service is a 12-chair practice staffed by general dentists, as well as specialty Board certified dentists and dental hygienists. It is a full-service practice offering:

• diagnostic and preventive care
• restorative care (including prosthetic, implant and cosmetic dentistry)
• endodontics (root canals)
  • oral surgery
• pediatric dentistry
• periodontics

Emergency care is available every day of the year. Please call or visit the HUHS website for additional information and special offers for students.

Optical Shop
Holyoke Center – 5th Floor
617-495-5728
Mon. – Fri. 8:30 am–4:30 pm

The HUHS Optical Shop offers a range of products and services including:

• Prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses
• Protective prescription eyewear for work, sports, and recreation (safety glasses, swim goggles)
• Computer glasses
• Adjustments and repairs

The Optical Shop operates on a walk-in, fee-for-service basis, and is open to all those presenting a valid HUID card. Payment options for students are term-billing, cash, check, Visa and MasterCard.

HUHS Pharmacy
Holyoke Center Arcade
617-496-6661; Refill Line 617-495-8468
Mon.–Fri., 8:45 am–7:00 pm; Sat., 9:00 am–1:00 pm;
Closed on Sundays and University Holidays

The HUHS Pharmacy is located in the Holyoke Center Arcade, adjacent to the main HUHS entrance. The Pharmacy can fill prescriptions written by a HUHS clinician, and offers a wide selection of non-prescription items at very competitive prices. The HUHS Student Health Fee includes coverage of most prescription medications with various co-payments. Limits do apply; for additional information please visit the HUHS website.

UNIVERSITY OMBUDS OFFICE
Lydia Cummings, Ombudsperson
Mon.–Fri., 9 am–5 pm
Holyoke Center Suite 748617-495-7748
www.universityombuds.harvard.edu

In a "Statement of Values" presented in August 2002, President Summers emphasized the responsibility of all who work at Harvard to uphold certain standards of conduct. The University Ombuds Office was established by President Summers to assist individuals concerned about conditions in the academic community violating the standards of conduct. These standards include respect for the rights and dignity of others, honesty and integrity in all dealings, the conscientious pursuit of excellence and a commitment to be accountable. The office seeks to help individuals to find solutions for problems that they may have been unable to resolve using existing normal channels. More generally, its primary purpose is to resolve issues of equity and justice before escalation of tensions produces polarization in any part of the University.

The University Ombuds Office officially reports to the Provost but is independent of any university administrative structure. The office is available to all Harvard faculty, students, post-docs, research personnel, and staff. The office supplements, but does not replace any mechanisms for addressing grievances within the College and other parts of the University. When appropriate it will initially refer its visitors to available conflict resolution offices but only after carefully assessing the nature of the complaint.

The office has no power to adjudicate, arbitrate or to make formal investigations. Its general activities are summarized statistically in an annual report to the Provost that also addresses trends, if any, requiring the attention of the Office of the President. The intent of this information is to uphold and improve the basic values of the entire Harvard community.

The office provides a "safe haven" respecting the privacy and dignity of its visitors. Conversations will ordinarily remain completely confidential. There are no formal records of such conversations. Information will only be shared when there is a potential for personal harm or after the issuance of a court order. Further actions, perhaps involving mediation involving others, are taken only at the visitor’s request or permission. Ombuds are neutral. They are not advocates for any individual or group.

Office visitors are expected to come with a variety of problems—academic and research disputes, access to resources, supervisor-student conflicts, harassment and other forms of inappropriate behavior, interpersonal relationships and problematic working conditions. The Ombuds will listen impartially, help to analyze the visitor’s problems, and discuss options for dealing with them. The choice for the most appropriate next steps is the visitor’s. If the chosen option involves discussion with others, the ombudsperson can provide assistance with and coaching for both written and verbal communication.

Office operations are consistent with the code of ethics and the practices of The International Ombudsman Association.