The Health and Wellness Center at Farmingdale State College: Showcasing its Importance to Students during National Nutrition Month

By: Horace Lane

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. - The Health and Wellness Center at Farmingdale State College plays an important role in student-well being, especially during National Nutrition Month in March. Students have a hectic lifestyle, whether it’s studying for exams, work, or other responsibilities the Center provides essential health services to support a balanced lifestyle. 

Lauren Hillmann, Head Director of Health and Wellness, has extensive experience in her position. After spending decades in the medical field working as a Nurse, Hillmann transitioned to college health care, for a more balanced lifestyle between family and work. “The hospital environment is demanding, with long shifts and high stress. Here, I get to educate students about their health while helping them develop independence in managing their well-being,” says Hillmann.

The Health and Wellness Center works similar to an urgent care facility as it provides sick visits, physical exams, immunizations and women’s health assistance. The mission of the center includes providing comprehensive health education that includes smoking prevention, in addition to educating students about vaping, alcohol consumption, and sexual well-being. “For many students, this is their first time handling their own healthcare. We aim to educate them on making responsible choices,” Hillmann said.

One of the more popular services that is available at the Health and Wellness Center is the free massage therapy which attracts the majority of the students to the center. Farmingdale student Anibelka Adames first visited for a massage and was surprised to discover the center’s wide range of services. “I found out they also offer OB-GYN services, chiropractic care, and counseling. These are things I wouldn’t normally have access to outside of school because of cost and insurance limitations,” Adames stated.

The center provides services beyond physical health, such as  mental health support. “College can be stressful, and having these services available has really helped me. It’s great that they are covered by tuition,” Adames said.

Despite its many offerings, most students remain unaware of the amount of services and amenities the center has and can be easily overlooked.  Hillmann stated that Farmingdale is a commuter- heavy school and can be challenging to reach out to all the students. “A lot of students come to class and leave right after. We do our best to raise awareness through outreach events, social media, and campus partnerships,” she explained.  The center also collaborates with mental health services, student activities, and campus recreation to promote wellness initiatives, such as free chair massages during finals and health education events throughout the year.

Students are very fortunate to have a facility like the Health and Wellness Center on Campus, as it can be difficult for students that dorm to seek medical support. Khefren Ramon, a student who dorms at FSC stated “In college you’re largely independent and when you’re sick it can be hard to seek out the proper care. So it’s great that the center is a local free resource that can simplify the process for students.” 

Hillmann and Adames also recommend students to explore the online patient portal, which allows them to book appointments and learn about available services. “Once students visit and see what we offer, they usually come back,” Hillmann said.

As National Nutrition Month encourages informed food choices and healthy habits, the Health and Wellness Center remains a vital resource for Farmingdale students. With easy access to accessible healthcare and wellness services, the center helps students take charge of their well-being, enhancing their college experience both physically and mentally.

For more information, students can visit the Farmingdale State College website, follow the center on Instagram @fsc_healthandwellness, or stop by in person to take advantage of available services.