Alumni today often exclaim over the resources at Howard that they didn’t have back in their day as students. “More food choices!” one noted on Facebook. “Air conditioning!” said another. Even amenities such as iLab were pointed out, providing students access to state-of-the-art computers.

There are many amenities and resources, both in the dorms and around campus, designed to enhance student life, stay progressive and competitive with other universities, and create a feeling of safety and community. These range from renovated dorms to mental health programs.

In the dorms, students have access to workout rooms equipped with Pelotons, hair salons, and even free laundry. Safety around campus has been enhanced, with increased digital security, the Bison SAFE app with alert system, and the distribution of POM (Peace of Mind) devices. Around campus, students have more dining options, delivery through Kiwibot, and their dining dollars can even be used at participating restaurants off-campus. For students who need accommodations, there are also private testing rooms in the Undergraduate Library.

Then there are bigger resources, including mental health support, a food pantry, and LGBTQ support center.

“We want students to know that we’re here to help make their life as seamless and comfortable as possible while they’re at Howard, and that these resources are available to them,” says Cynthia Evers, Ph.D., vice president for student affairs. “Students will go through periods of adjustment. We want them to know that it’s okay to reach out for help.”

The Office of Student Services offers disability support for those who need accommodations; services for military and veteran students; and nonclinical case management for those who need some additional help navigating through difficult or sticky situations, from administrative issues to relationships. The nonclinical case management is a newer development designed to give students an extra hand when needed, and can refer students to other experts or resources.

Students will go through periods of adjustment. We want them to know that it’s okay to reach out for help.”

For those who require more counseling, HU Counseling Service is available to students and run by a full staff of licensed clinicians. One-on-one sessions, group therapy, and medication management are available. Students can call 202-806-6870 from 8am-4pm to register for an intake or email HUCounseling@howard.edu.

Students who run into food insecurity issues can apply for assistance with The Store@HU, a food pantry that also carries basic hygiene products as well. Students can fill out the form and receive requested items free of charge.

A new resource for LGBTQ+ students is the Intercultural Affairs and LGBTQ+ Resource Center, which aims to provide support, community-building, awareness and education. Many alumni have expressed gratitude that this support exists for students today.

“Academic work is already challenging enough,” Evers says. “We want our students to focus on their studies and support any extra stress or worries they may be experiencing.”