UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — University Health Services, a unit of Student Affairs, is currently seeking undergraduate students to participate in HealthWorks, a student peer education and outreach program that promotes health topics at University Park. Applications for the 2017-18 academic year are currently being accepted through March 3.
The HealthWorks program offers students two unique opportunities to share and promote health information on campus. These opportunities include one-on-one peer wellness sessions and involvement in various outreach activities, including workshops and events.
HealthWorks is a three-semester commitment, which includes one semester of training and two semesters of service. Training for the program requires the completion of a three-credit course, BBH 324, offered through the Department of Biobehavioral Health, which can be completed during the fall semester. Topics covered in the course range within a number of health promotion theories, strategies and health issues that are relevant to the college population. These include: alcohol and other drugs, financial literacy, sexual health, nutrition, physical activity, sleep and stress.
During the spring semester, weekly meetings will be scheduled for HealthWorks participants to deliver wellness messages and engage in outreach activities. One-on-one peer educators will also meet with students individually on an as-needed basis to provide free wellness services. Commonly discussed topics include stress and time management, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, sexual health, healthy relationships and financial literacy.
"HealthWorks is a great opportunity for any Penn State student who is passionate about health and wellness to get involved,” said Kyle Houser, a senior biology major. “The goal is not only to make University Park a healthier place, but also to encourage the development of leadership and communication skills. If students are looking to get involved in an organization that is both personally and professionally rewarding, this is it."
In addition to scheduled outreach activities and on-on-one education, HealthWorks participants also provide HIV test counseling and raise awareness about a variety of topics, including stress, health sustainability and body image. Ongoing HealthWorks projects include participation in healthy cooking instruction, the creation of blog and social media posts for Healthy Penn State, and involvement in programs such as The Body Monologues, the Fitness Challenge, and Safer Spring Break initiative.
For more on the HealthWorks program or to apply, visit studentaffairs.psu.edu/health/wellness/healthWorks.shtml.