Rice Health Advisors
Who are the Rice Health Advisors (RHAs)?
They are the student members of the on-campus club called the Rice Health Advisors. RHAs are on hand at each college to answer basic health and wellness-related questions. They act as a liason between the Wellness Center and its associated programming throughout the semester. Regular meetings keep membership informed and allow for planning and evaluation of on-campus health education programs. The staff advisor for the Rice Health Advisors is Marissa Howat, Assistant Director of the Wellness Center at Rice. The Coordinators of Rice Health Advisors for the 2012-2013 academic year are Chris Keller and Jenny Wen.
I want to become a Rice Health Advisor. How do I do that?
Membership as a Rice Health Advisor is contingent on successful completion of UNIV 250 offered during the spring semester. UNIV 250 is a 3-credit class designed to introduce students to the principles of peer health education. Class discussions include analysis of major health risks, personal health status assessments, strategies for reducing risk behaviors and promoting healthy lifestyles among college students. Instructor permission is required for enrollment.
What can a Rice Health Advisor do for me?
Rice Health Advisors also keep a first aid kit in their rooms (see list below). Students are welcome to stop by to pick up supplies, ask questions about health and wellness topics, discuss a personal problem or issue in a confidential setting, or learn more about getting involved with the organization. Members will direct students to the Wellness Center, Health Services or the Rice Counseling Center as appropriate. Do you have questions about how to become an RHA? Email Marissa Howat for more information about UNIV 250 and enrollment.
Who are the 2011 - 2012 Rice Health Advisors at my college?
For RHAs: Would you like to propose an event? Fill out a Program Planning form.
WHAT'S IN THE KIT?
Rice Health Advisors have access to a basic first aid supply kit to furnish their peers with the following materials:
- Sterile Gauze Pads
- Aminofen*
- Thermometers
- Cough Drops
- Astroglide
- Condoms
- Bandaids
- Ace Bandages
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Hydrocortisone Cream
- Ibuprofen*
- Antiseptic Wipes
- Feminine Products
- Face Masks
- Earplugs
- Cold Compresses
* Please note: Before using any medicine remember to think SAFER: Speak Up, Ask Questions, Find the Facts, Evaluate Your Choices, Read the Label (FDA, 2004). Over the counter pain relievers / fever reducers are safe and effective when used as directed. However, they can cause serious problems when used by people with certain conditions or taking specific medications. They can also cause problems in people who take too much, or use them for a longer period of time than the product's drug facts label recommends. That is why it is important to follow label directions carefully. If you have any questions, talk to a pharmacist or health care professional. In an event of an emergency, please call Rice Emergency Medical Services at x6000.