The Fall 2024 semester is officially upon us, here to reignite feelings of educational progress, attainment, and the occasional stress dream if you’re on the more anxious side of scholarliness, like myself. Whether you’re just beginning your time at COS or continuing the pathway toward certifications, degrees, and other aspects of academia, the COS campus newspaper, The Campus Journal, would like to congratulate all who’ve made the decision to attend and further their educational careers at College of the Sequoias.
For those who are just starting out, be sure to take advantage of the many options provided by or through COS for personal, educational, and financial support. Whether you’re feeling tentative about tuition costs, coming from a place of food or housing insecurity, or even just looking for advice on an upcoming assignment, there are many services designed to help you navigate and feel more comfortable and confident as you work toward your goals. For more information, you can visit the Student Support Directory at: https://www.cos.edu/en-us/student-support-directory
If you’re looking for a break from drafts, deadlines, and due dates, there are also many opportunities for more recreational endeavors. For a quick bite or drink, the COS Cafeteria and The Grind coffee shop will be open Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. respectively. The Food Court/Snack Shack will be open from 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Note: Friday’s have a 2:00 p.m. closing time for all food services.
https://www.cos.edu/en-us/student-life/food-services
When you’re full, you might be interested in checking out the COS Student Clubs, where you can view a multitude of extracurricular clubs for a range of different interests and passions. If you find one that sounds compelling, feel free to reach out to the associated advisor via email. Or, if you notice that your interests are underrepresented, you’re always welcome to start your own club by filling out the Club Charter Form. For more information, visit: https://www.cos.edu/en-us/student-life/activities-and-affairs/clubs-organizations
OR, visit The Student Activities & Affairs Office in Giant Forest Room 123
Beyond college-related help, COS also offers a range of medical options through the Student Health Center. Both physical and mental health services are available in Visalia and Tulare, appointments preferred though walk-ins “may be available on first come first serve basis”.
For a webpage directory: https://www.cos.edu/en-us/student-life/health-services/
For the Visalia Campus: 559-730-3880
For the Tulare Campus: 559-688-3060
If you are in crisis, need help for yourself or someone else, please dial 988 for free, confidential help 24 hours a day. Visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
If you are a veteran in distress, please call the Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 and PRESS “1”. An online chat function for veterans in crisis is also available at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Veterans/Default.aspx
If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or are struggling with gender identity or sexual orientation and are in distress contact the Trevor Hotline at 1-866-488-7386 or visit https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/
So, if you are brand new to campus or a returning student, welcome back Giants, here’s hoping you have a successful Fall semester!
