A new digital resource aimed at improving student success and well-being went live this week. YOU @ UNLV pools support resources in one user-friendly interface with the goal of supporting students throughout their time at UNLV.
The online portal allows users to assess their current physical, mental, and social needs and pair them with campus resources or online tools. Through a series of questions and self-checks, the site adapts to each user and encourages them to use a wealth of support resources.
Those resources include online videos, trainings, or encouragement to visit on-campus resources, such as the Student Health Center, Academic Success Center, Career Services, or one of the many student engagement programs in Student Life.
The portal is funded through a partnership with UNLV Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).
"We're proud of this partnership between CAPS and the School of Integrated Health Sciences," said Jamie Davidson, associate vice president of Student Wellness. "The YOU portal is another example of how CAPS continues to innovate and adapt its services to meet the needs of students."
Sharon Jalene, assistant dean for the School of Integrated Health Sciences, led the effort to bring the YOU portal to UNLV. “UNLV has a robust network of support services but our students may not know about these options or how to access the right information,” she said. “This easily accessible one-stop resource promises to be a pivotal component that helps all UNLV students achieve their academic, well-being, and personal goals.”
The portal is confidential and the data is anonymous but also delivers reports to administrators that assess student needs, interests, and the campus climate. That data can be used to shape programming and support resources.
“It’s important that we provide as many avenues to connect with students as possible,” said Trey Curtis-Brown, a UNLV graduate student and the YOU @ UNLV campus ambassador. “Some students come to college knowing exactly how to thrive here, but others need support. The YOU @ UNLV portal meets students where they are and grows with them over time.”
The launch of the YOU portal is an extension of Curtis-Brown’s personal and professional interests. A graduate assistant in the School of Integrated Health Sciences, he graduated from UNLV in 2020 with a BA in Kinesiology with a pre-med focus and is now pursuing an MS in Emergency and Crisis Management.
“Healthcare and well-being have always been interests of mine,” Curtis-Brown said. “Both of my grandparents spent a lot of time in hospitals from kidney failure to cancer, and that experience solidified my interest in health, particularly patient rights and advocacy.”
His ultimate plan is to attend law school and focus on public policy and patient rights. He attributes his success at UNLV to being involved, accessing campus resources, and finding community. He found those connections through traditional means, but he hopes the YOU portal serves as another avenue for students to connect.
“Student Involvement is one of the most important elements of my undergraduate career,” Curtis-Brown said. “The YOU portal is another way students can engage in those experiences. Not everyone is comfortable at first with face-to-face communication, and this resource allows those students to approach their well-being and engagement on their terms.”
Campus Presentations Available
The YOU @ UNLV portal launched on Jan. 24, and has already garnered strong interest. Curtis-Brown is leading a campuswide marketing and education effort for the portal that includes presentations on the portal and its benefits to campus. Groups that are interested in learning more about YOU @ UNLV may email him for more information.
