Abstract
This study evaluated an academic counseling program called the University Turn Around Program (U-Turn) for college students experiencing mental health concerns and low academic achievement. Forty-three (27 men, 16 women) college students ranged in age from 18–25 years old (M = 19.65, SD = 1.46), with 29 freshman, eight sophomores, and six juniors. Thirty-four students identified as Hispanic (79%), two students identified as African American (5%), and seven students identified as White/Caucasian or other (16%). Depression, generalized anxiety, and academic distress were measured on the CCAPS-34, and anxiety, concentration, motivation, self-testing, and time management were measured on the LASSI-3. Paired samples t tests revealed statistically significant improvements for each measure that were characterized by medium to large effects (d = 0.55 to 1.18) but were not clinically significant. These results support the need for additional inquiries into the use of the U-Turn program’s inclusion in university counseling centers.
Disclosure Statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
James Ikonomopoulos
Dr. James Ikonomopoulos is an Assistant Professor for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
Kristopher Garza
Dr. Kristopher Garza is an Associate Professor for Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Renee Weiss
Renee Weiss is the Assistant Director and Clinical Supervisor of the Student Health and Wellness Center at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Andrew Morales
Andrew Morales is a graduate student at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.