Students with dependents juggle multiple responsibilities in their roles as both students and caregivers. Check out these resources from The University of Texas at Austin to help you make the most of your limited time and negotiate the balance between school and life.
Counseling and Mental Health Center
At the Counseling and Mental Health Center you can find wellness workshops, individual counseling, and groups, such as mindfulness meditation, “Finding a Counselor 101” and “Understanding Self and Others.”
Lactation and Quiet Rooms
If you are breastfeeding, chestfeeding, or nursing, you can access the lactation/quiet rooms that are available across campus. Please note who can use each room and how to get in touch with the room contact. View a map of the lactation/quiet room locations across the UT Austin campus.
Academic Health Plans
The Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) provides low-cost coverage designed specifically for UT System students and their eligible dependents. This plan has all the essential features required by the Affordable Care Act plus optional dental coverage. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least seven credit hours each semester to be eligible for the plan.
UT Outpost (Food Pantry)
You can receive free food from the UT Outpost, which is currently offering contactless pickup. The UT Outpost also maintains a career closet of professional clothes for job fairs, internships, and interviews. For additional food support, please visit the Central Texas Food Bank and Feeding America.
Student Ombuds
You can meet with Student Ombuds to confidentially talk about any questions or concerns about life at UT Austin. Student Ombuds will help you identify and discuss your options so that you can seek resolution. Some common concerns that students bring to Student Ombuds are final exam conflicts, financial aid issues, grade disputes, conflicts with professors, processes, departments, or other students, and problems with enrollment, academic advising, or registration.
Student Outreach and Support
If you have a family emergency or other challenging situation, Student Outreach and Support can provide you with assistance, intervention, and referrals, and notify faculty of your absence. You may be able to access financial support from the Student Emergency Fund in the event of a verified emergency, such as loss of job opportunities, changes in family incomes, unexpected medical needs, as well as other emergencies.