Northwestern State University provides student-athletes with access to career counseling and life skills programming addressing the following required areas:
 
Mental Health
Northwestern State Athletics is committed to supporting the mental and emotional well-being of student-athletes. Student-athletes have access to mental health resources, counseling services, and sports medicine professionals who can provide support and connect them with appropriate resources.
Contact: Brittany Pajuluoma; Associate Athletic Director Sports Medicine/SWA; goldbergb@nsula.edu
 
Team Building and Belonging
Student-athletes are encouraged to build positive relationships with teammates, coaches, and members of the Northwestern State community. Team-building opportunities may promote communication, leadership, accountability, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging within each team. Team-building activities and opportunities are determined at the discretion of each head coach based on the needs and goals of their team.
Contact: Head coaches can be contacted for further questions.
 
Sexual Violence Prevention
Northwestern State Athletics provides student-athletes with education and resources focused on sexual violence prevention, healthy relationships, personal safety, and recognizing and responding to concerning behaviors.
Contact: Brittany Pajuluoma; Associate Athletic Director Sports Medicine/SWA; goldbergb@nsula.edu
 
Education on Transfer Requirements
Student-athletes who are considering transferring are provided with information and guidance regarding applicable NCAA and institutional transfer requirements. Student-athletes are encouraged to work with athletics staff to understand the transfer process and available resources.
Contact: Dustin Eubanks; Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations; eubanksd@nsula.edu
 
Strength and Conditioning
Northwestern State Athletics provides student-athletes with strength and conditioning resources designed to support athletic performance, physical development, injury prevention, and overall health and wellness.
Contact: Jason Smelser; Director of Strength & Conditioning; smelserj@nsula.edu
 
Nutrition
Student-athletes have access to nutrition education and resources designed to support athletic performance, recovery, overall health, and healthy lifestyle habits throughout their collegiate careers.
Contact: Brittany Pajuluoma; Associate Athletic Director Sports Medicine/SWA; goldbergb@nsula.edu
 
Financial Literacy
Student-athletes are provided with resources and educational opportunities to develop financial literacy and responsible financial habits. Topics may include budgeting, managing expenses, financial planning, and making informed financial decisions.
Contact: Bryn Dill; Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development; edmonstonb@nsula.edu
 
Career Preparation
Northwestern State Athletics provides student-athletes with resources and opportunities to prepare for life after collegiate athletics. Career preparation may include resume development, interview preparation, career exploration, professional development, and connecting student-athletes with campus and community resources.
Contact: Bryn Dill; Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development; edmonstonb@nsula.edu
 
Name, Image and Likeness (NIL)
Student-athletes have access to education and resources related to Name, Image and Likeness (NIL), including information regarding applicable NCAA, institutional, and state requirements and responsible participation in NIL activities.
Contact: Dustin Eubanks; Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations; eubanksd@nsula.edu
 
These programs and resources are available to support the academic, personal, professional, and overall development of Northwestern State student-athletes.