Otis College's Broad Network of Care Includes Academic Support and Disability Services

In part two of this series, readers learn about additional holistic support services provided by the College.

Across campus, Otis College provides programs, services, and resources designed to support student success throughout the year. In part two of this series, we highlight academic and research support, accessibility resources, centralized student services, and campus dining.

The Student Learning Center (SLC) provides programs that foster intellectual, personal, and creative growth for Otis students. With a mission to empower students as independent learners, the SLC offers tutoring, workshops, and academic support in writing, reading, math, art history, and digital media. Students have access to coaching designed to help with time management, organization, study strategies, and goal setting. The SLC also hires students as peer tutors in writing, math, and digital software.

The Millard Sheets Library supports the curriculum and research needs of Otis students, faculty, and staff through collections, services, and instructional support. Library resources include books, periodicals, online databases, e-books, and special collections that include 3,000 artists’ books. Librarians provide research assistance and instruction to support student learning and research across art and design disciplines.

The library also offers study and research spaces year-round for students working independently or collaboratively, as well as computers (Mac and PC), printers, and scanners. “Our collections and services are designed to invite curiosity, foster inspiration, and hone skills for the student’s own creative practice,” says Heather Cleary, MLIS, Director of Library Services.

Disability Services provides equal access to educational programs, activities, and facilities for students with disabilities. The office coordinates accommodations and services in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Disability Services works with students to determine reasonable accommodations based on documented disabilities and their individual educational needs.

The office also collaborates with faculty and campus offices to enable full student participation across the Otis educational experience.

One Stop @ Otis College is a centralized hub for academic advising, registration, financial aid, and everything related to student accounts. The office provides assistance with course planning, graduation requirements, financial aid processes, billing, and payment information. By bringing these services together in one location, One Stop streamlines access to information and support related to students’ academic progress and accounts.

Campus dining also contributes to daily student life at Otis. Dining locations on campus provide a variety of meal options and gathering spaces for students throughout the day. Elaine’s Dining Commons and the Café serve members of the Otis community in spaces located near classrooms, studios, and the residence hall. Dining Services offers a variety of food options designed to accommodate different schedules and dietary preferences.

“As food service providers, supporting students year-round means providing consistent, nourishing meals and a welcoming dining experience. Food is part of students’ daily rhythm on campus, and we take pride in creating spaces where they feel cared for, comfortable, and supported,” says Bon Appétit Representative Richare Uribe.

Together, these offices and services reflect Otis College’s ongoing commitment to supporting students across campus throughout the year. Through academic support services, research assistance, accessibility resources, and campus dining, Otis is able to proactively and comprehensively address a broad range of student needs.

Read part one:

Otis College Students are Supported by a Wraparound Network of Care

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