Wellness Resources
In the College of Science and Engineering (CSE), your well-being is just as important as your academic success. Remember, you are a person first and a student second. Life as a student can be challenging, and whether you're feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult transition or struggling to find the resources you need, our Wellness Support team is here to help.
CSE Wellness Team
Marnie Andrews, MSW, LISW
she/her
Assistant Director of Academic Advising and Wellness AdvocacyEducation: BA in Social Work; Master of Social Work from the University of Denver; Licensed Independent Social Worker
Marnie Andrews grew up in a small, rural farming community in Iowa. Her education took her from Iowa to Colorado for a while, and she made her home in Minnesota several years ago. Since 2012, she has worked with both undergraduate and graduate students with diverse identities, including first-generation students, women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC), international, former foster youth, and veteran students.
As a first-generation student herself, she came to college underprepared for the rigor and expectations of college-level work and struggled to balance various changing life dynamics while acclimating to the university setting. At the time, she didn't realize that experience would shape the trajectory of her entire career.
Few things in life have been more fulfilling to her than working collaboratively with students to help them achieve success in their personal and professional lives during college. In her role, she regularly connects students to campus resources and supports them in identifying and accomplishing concrete goals using a strengths-based, solution-focused approach. She identifies as a first-generation, cis white woman. In her free time, she enjoys cooking new recipes, traveling, and spending time with her children and husband.
Carolyn Litzell
she/they
Wellness Support CoordinatorEducation: Master of Social Work; Master of Professional Studies in Sexual Health (expected May 2026)
Carolyn Litzell is a first-generation Family Social Science graduate from the University of Minnesota. They intend to pursue a career in sex and relationship therapy. With an ongoing commitment to advancing sexual health, they are enrolled in both a Master of Social Work program and a Master of Professional Studies in Sexual Health at the University of Minnesota.
Driven by a desire to deepen their understanding of progressive sexual health and sex education, Carolyn traveled to the Netherlands to explore the history and policies that have shaped the country's renowned programs. This international experience has enriched their perspective and fueled their dedication to the field.
In addition to their academic and professional pursuits, Carolyn is an avid cook who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and is always eager to hear about your favorite recipes and restaurants. They bike to campus daily and are excited to take on the challenge of winter biking this year. At home, Carolyn shares their life with their partner and dotes on their two cats and a dog, all named after "Star Trek" characters. Together, Carolyn and their supportive partner are dedicated caregivers for his brother. As a family, they spend as much time as possible together, often playing video games or engaging in philosophical discussions.
As a nontraditional student and ally to the LGBTQIA+ community, Carolyn is committed to fostering inclusivity and understanding in both their personal life and professional endeavors.
Services Provided by the CSE Wellness Team
- Personalized wellness assessments: Meet with a wellness support coordinator to discuss any challenges you’re facing — whether it’s stress, anxiety, or the general ups and downs of life. Together, we’ll identify the best solutions to help you thrive.
- Short-term assistance: Receive brief, targeted support for non-acute mental health concerns, basic needs, or personal challenges. We’re here to help you manage these issues before they become larger obstacles.
- Referrals to resources: Unsure where to turn? We’ll connect you with the appropriate campus or community resources, whether it’s mental health services, financial aid, or other support systems. Think of us as your bridge to the help you need.
- Action plan development: We’ll work with you to create and implement a personalized action plan that addresses your specific needs, ensuring you have the support and follow-up necessary for success.
Services NOT Provided by the CSE Wellness Team
- Long-term counseling: Our focus is on short-term support and connecting you with resources for ongoing care if needed.
- Academic advising or career counseling: We’re here to support your well-being, but for academic planning and career counseling, you’ll want to speak with your academic advisor or a career counselor.
- Medical diagnoses or treatment: While we can guide you to the right resources, we do not diagnose or treat medical conditions.
- Replacement for professional mental health services: If you’re dealing with more serious or ongoing mental health issues, we will help you find the appropriate professional support, whether that is on or off campus.
Please note:
- Non-acute mental health concerns include, but are not limited to, mild anxiety, stress, and short-term emotional challenges that do not require emergency intervention or intensive psychological treatment.
- Basic needs insecurity refers to difficulties related to accessing essential resources such as food, housing, transportation, technology, and financial stability.
Next Steps
Additional Resources
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Basic Needs and Financial Resources
- Financial Wellness Counseling: Provides personalized financial guidance on topics such as budgeting, loans, and credit through free appointments with a financial wellness counselor at One Stop.
- Housing and Residential Life: Offers resources and support for both on-campus and off-campus housing.
- ISSS Emergency Funds: Provides financial support for international students facing emergency situations through the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
- Nutritious U Food Pantry: Offers fresh and healthy food to students experiencing food insecurity.
- Scholarship Search and Resources: Provides tools and information for finding and applying for scholarships.
- SNAP Food Stamps: Offers information and assistance for students eligible for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Student Emergency Funds: Provides financial support for students facing unforeseen emergencies.
- Youth Services Network: Includes an emergency shelter search tool for students facing housing insecurity.
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Connection and Identity-Based Resources
- Asian Pacific American Resource Center (APARC): Provides a supportive space and resources for Asian Pacific American students.
- Fraternity and Sorority Life: Offers opportunities for leadership, service, and community through Greek life.
- Gender and Sexuality Center for Queer and Trans Life: Provides resources and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ students.
- Identity-Based CSE Student Organizations: Creates a supportive community for underrepresented students in the College of Science and Engineering through student groups that focus on shared identities and experiences, fostering inclusion and professional growth.
- Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE): Serves as a support hub for students of color, American Indian students, and first-generation students.
- Office for Equity and Diversity: Promotes equity and diversity through education, outreach, and policy development.
- President’s Emerging Scholars Program: Offers support to students from underrepresented backgrounds to ensure their academic success.
- Student Parent HELP Center: Provides comprehensive support services for students who are balancing parenthood and academics, including academic advising, financial assistance, and access to family-friendly resources.
- Women’s Center: Advocates for gender equity through advocacy, education, and community-building initiatives.
- Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Initiative: Supports and promotes the success of women in STEM fields through mentoring, networking opportunities, and professional development programs within the College of Science and Engineering.
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Health and Wellness Resources
- Boynton Health: Offers a wide range of health services including medical care, mental health support, dental care, and wellness programs, all designed to support the overall well-being of students.
- Boynton Mental Health: Provides comprehensive mental health services, including counseling and therapy.
- CARE Program: Offers brief case management, support, and resources to students as they navigate the University and pursue their academic and personal goals.
- Help Compass: Provides a triage service to quickly assess mental health and wellness needs, and connect students with appropriate care and resources.
- Lactation and Wellness Spaces: Designated areas for nursing and personal wellness across campus.
- Learn to Live: Offers free, confidential online therapy programs for students, covering topics such as social anxiety, depression, insomnia, and stress management, accessible anytime with the code “UMN.”
- Let’s Talk: Provides drop-in consultations with counselors for informal support and resource referrals.
- Recreation and Wellness Center (RecWell): A multipurpose complex offering fitness classes, sports, swimming, and more.
- Student Counseling Services (SCS): Offers individual and group counseling, workshops, and community-building opportunities.
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Legal and Advocacy Resources
- Bias Response and Referral Network: Addresses incidents of bias and provides support to those affected.
- Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action: Ensures that all students have equal access to educational opportunities.
- Student Advocate Services: Provide assistance to students who have been accused of or charged with violating the Student Conduct Code, University Housing policy, or other academic or conduct policies.
- Student Conflict Resolution Center (SCRC): Helps students resolve university-related conflicts in a fair and impartial manner.
- Student Legal Services: Offers legal representation and advice on issues like landlord/tenant disputes, family law, and more.
- The Aurora Center for Advocacy and Education: Supports victims of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking.
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Transportation Resources
- 624-WALK Service: Provides a walking escort service to help students safely travel between campus locations and nearby neighborhoods.
- Gopher Chauffeur: A free ride service available for students to ensure a safe way to get home, with rides requested via phone or app.
- Rave Guardian Campus Safety App: Allows students to virtually "walk" with peers and alerts police if a safety timer expires, providing an added layer of campus safety.
- Universal Transit Pass: Grants students unlimited access to the regional transit system in the Twin Cities metro area, helping them travel across the city with ease.
Contact us
Want to learn more or schedule an appointment?
Email the CSE Wellness team or schedule an appointment on the CSE Wellness Appointments webpage.
Feel free to contact us:
Lind Hall, Suite 105
[email protected]