Having a successful college experience isn’t just about earning good grades and getting your degree—it’s about having the resources you need to thrive during this phase of your life and into the next. 

The new “U for You” student podcast series, created by University of Utah Marketing and Communications, highlights not only what support exists for students on campus but also how to actually use it. 

Access audio, show notes and transcripts for the first four episodes below: 

Episode One: Get to know the Counseling Center

This episode features an interview with Christina Kelly LaCluyse, associate director of outreach and programming at the University of Utah Counseling Center, and a special guest, facility dog Volley. Listen to learn about the wide range of free mental health services available to students, including individual therapy, group therapy, support groups, skill sessions and campus outreach.

Episode Two: What are nationally competitive scholarships?

In this conversation, Ginger Smoak, director of the University of Utah’s Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships, shares how her office supports students in accessing life-changing academic and global opportunities. Learn about prestigious scholarships like Rhodes, Fulbright, Marshall, Gates Cambridge and many others, including research, graduate study and teaching English abroad. Whether you’re just curious or actively planning your next step, this conversation shows why applying is always worth it.

Episode Three: Supporting basic needs and fostering success

From food, housing, health care and transportation to clothing and peer support, the Basic Needs Collective connects students to more than 600 campus and community resources. 

Martha Hernandez, collective manager, also shares how peer wellbeing navigators, a cost-free thrift shop and programs like Adulting 101 help students build community while meeting foundational needs. 

Episode Four: An intro to financial wellness

Gabrielle McAllaster, director of the University of Utah’s Financial Wellness Center, joins the podcast to talk about money—without the shame or stress. McAllaster explains how accredited financial counselors and peer wellbeing ambassadors help students with budgeting, student loans, credit, saving and planning for life after graduation.