El Camino College, a prominent community college in California, is making strides to enhance student well-being by offering an array of health services that stand out among its peers. Despite paying a modest health fee each semester—$26 in fall and $20 during the summer—many students remain unaware of the resources available to them. However, the college is determined to bridge this gap, ensuring that their students fully utilize what is at their disposal.
Diverse Services Offered by El Camino Health Services
The El Camino Health Center provides a comprehensive suite of free resources aimed at safeguarding student mental and physical health. Among these are virtual and in-person mental health therapy sessions, contraceptive options, chiropractic services, and various educational workshops. Susan Nilles, the director of Student Health Services, has expressed concern over the low utilization rates among students. “I’m always looking for ways to try to get our students to know about their benefits," she remarked. Unfortunately, many students express surprise upon discovering these resources during outreach events.
For every semester that students enroll in at El Camino College, they contribute to a health fee that facilitates access to vital services, including reproductive care and sexual health resources. This encompasses free testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and access to contraceptives such as condoms and birth control pills. These benefits are essential for fostering a safe and supportive educational environment. However, many students remain disconnected from the informational channels, which contributes to the underutilization of these crucial services.
Comparison with Other Colleges
When compared to five other community colleges in Southern California, El Camino College emerges as the clear leader in terms of available services. Notably, it is the only institution among its peers to offer chiropractic services, which have proven to be particularly popular among students. Chiropractic appointments, available under the guidance of Roni Megro, occur on Thursday mornings and are a sought-after resource.
In examining the offerings from other nearby colleges, including Glendale Community College and Santa Monica College, it becomes evident that they provide fewer services than ECC. For example, while Glendale also charges a $26 health fee, their offerings fall short when stacked against those available at El Camino.
The Evolution of Health Fee Costs
The health fee at El Camino College has undergone significant changes since its introduction in 1991. Initially set at $7.50, the fee has gradually increased over the years, reaching the current rate of $26. This increase reflects both inflation and the growing demand for enhanced health services on campus. Despite its rise in cost, the fee remains just a dollar less than the maximum allowable charge set by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.
The funding for the health center is derived primarily from student fees, amounting to an estimated $590,255 in fall of 2024, based on enrollment figures. Additionally, ECC has secured annual funding to support mental health services, which has become increasingly pertinent in light of evolving student needs.
Mental Health Services: A Growing Concern
The importance of mental health services cannot be overstated, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly impacted students’ mental well-being. The center offers a variety of mental health workshops, including therapy dog sessions and grief counseling, aimed at promoting student health. Mental health coordinator Eryka Tyler emphasized the center’s commitment, stating, "It’s very important that when any students come here, we are prioritizing mental health."
Among the student body, feedback has been largely positive. For instance, Navonna Hupach, a 19-year-old undecided major, reported her satisfaction after visiting the health center for assistance. Others like Luciana Stuppa have echoed similar experiences, appreciating the speedy appointments and efficient service.
Challenges in Awareness and Accessibility
Despite the wide range of services available at El Camino Health Services, the challenge of student awareness persists. Nilles reiterated her commitment to raising awareness among the student population, stating, “If we were to have a California student health services Olympics, we would absolutely be in contention for all the services that we do offer.” This sentiment underscores the need for continued efforts to familiarize students with the resources available to them.
Community colleges across the region, including Fullerton College and Santa Monica College, have begun to recognize the merits of both virtual and in-person services. However, students still overwhelmingly prefer attending appointments in person, highlighting the need for effective outreach strategies to educate students about the breadth of services available.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In conclusion, El Camino College’s offerings through its health services stand as a model for how community colleges can better support their students. With initiatives ranging from mental health therapy to physical care, the center is a vital resource that significantly enhances the student experience. It is imperative that students take full advantage of these opportunities for their well-being, as the health fee they pay grants them access to invaluable services designed to help them thrive academically and personally.
By fostering stronger communication and outreach, El Camino College can increase awareness among students, ensuring that every individual fully utilizes the extensive benefits of the El Camino Health Center. As Nilles strives to keep the health center at the forefront of student services, it remains vital for students to engage with the myriad resources available to them. The college’s commitment to health and well-being is evident, and it’s time for students to make the most of what is offered.
