Free resources help you make the most of Summer Term

Wondering how to get the help you need as a Summer Term student in this extraordinary time? UW–Madison has you covered, offering an array of free resources to undergrads and graduate students. Even with all courses moved online during the pandemic, faculty and staff are standing by to ensure you make the most of your summer education.

Advising

Undergraduate academic advisors are ready to engage with students using a variety of remote options—phone, online video call or email. They’ll answer your questions about course selection and requirements and are glad to chat about other issues related to your life as a student. Find your academic advisor by using the Student Center in MyUW. For career advice, go to Career Services at UW-Madison.

And here’s a nugget of advising gold from Jen Walsh, assistant director of Summer Advising Initiatives: “Summer classes move fast compared to fall and spring classes, so keep an eye on add/drop deadlines, which can come up sooner than you think.”

Libraries

Although you can’t visit UW–Madison libraries in person right now, you can access a treasure trove of journals, books and other resources online. The library staff is available to help you find what you need via the Ask a Librarian chat service, or you can text a librarian at 608-729-7886. (Don’t be shy; answering questions is what librarians love most!)

To brush up on your research skills, try one of the many library research tutorials designed to transform you from a research newbie to a bibliographic expert. Ready to jump in on your own? Access the catalog anytime through the online search page.

Writing

Everyone needs an editor, and the tutors at the Writing Center offer live instruction via Skype, written feedback and weekly writing groups. To learn more and sign up for an appointment, visit the webpage Summer Term and the Writing Center.

For an in-depth dive into topics like essay exams, grammar and documentation, sign up for one of the virtual workshops. For quick answers, consult the center’s Writers Handbook or email a question to a real, live writing consultant.

Technology

The Division of Information Technology (known on campus as DoIT) provides tech support by phone, email or chat, as well as helpful step-by-step guides like How to Securely Connect to the UW Network.

DoIT also offers a summer-long calendar of online classes on everything from Excel to programming to portrait retouching in Photoshop. An expansive menu of self-paced tutorials on every tech and professional topic under the sun (digital animation, leadership, online publishing) is available through LinkedIn Learning.

Health

University Health Services (UHS) offers medical, counseling and wellness services by phone and, in some cases, in-person. Log into MyUHS or call 608-265-5600 to schedule a phone appointment. is available for students; to get started, schedule a primary care appointment. You can also call 608-265-5600 to get medical advice for a mental health crisis. If you’re the victim of sexual assault, or need help dealing with a dangerous relationship or family situation, go to the Survivor Services page or call the 24-hour crisis line at 608-265-5600.

UHS offers a variety of other health resources . The Department of Psychiatry also maintains a helpful compilation of COVID-19 mental health resources from around the web, and you’ll find the latest information on the UW’s response to COVID-19.

Take advantage of these free resources to have a healthy and successful Summer Term!