The Guidance Services and Wellness Center recently visited National University (NU) Clark) for a benchmarking activity last August 29, 2025. The benchmarking activity is focused on enhancing student wellness and academic support initiatives. NU Clark currently serves around 6,000 students through a dedicated team of two guidance counselors and a psychometrician.

During the visit, the team observed NU Clark’s strong alignment with academic units, where engagement in guidance activities is supported through incentive-based participation. The office delivers a comprehensive suite of services including individual inventory and needs assessment, counseling, psychological testing using both traditional tools and NovoPsych, and mental health fitness certifications issued by the office head.

NU Clark also showcased their structured referral system through partnerships with clinicians at Lugud Psychological Clinic, as well as their active programs under KabaleNU HELP and KabaleNU CARE. Specialized support is provided for groups such as student athletes, OFW children, working students, international students, peer facilitators, and students with special learning needs—each receiving coordinated monitoring and monthly check-ins.

The benchmarking highlighted NU Clark’s strong commitment to research, with internal funding and publication incentives, alongside their employee wellness initiatives conducted in partnership with HR. The team also learned about their Crisis Management Protocol and community outreach activities, including support work for OSAEC victim shelters.

The visit provided valuable insights that will help strengthen GSWC’s own programs and reinforce its mission of delivering accessible, responsive, and holistic guidance services to its community.