KU Libraries student ambassadors to debut ‘Affirmation Station’ prior to finals week

Abdullah Al-Awhad

Final reports, research papers, exams, and tall piles of homework can make the end of the semester a stressful time for a college student. Ahead of final exams, members of KU Libraries Student Ambassador Program (KULSAP) are aiming to draw smiles and inject positivity during trying times with a traveling Affirmation Station. 

Students from KULSAP will be stationed at four campus locations from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., including Watson and Anschutz libraries, and along Wescoe Beach and at the Kansas Memorial Union, during the week of April 22. Visitors can make personalized buttons and bracelets, write poems and grab a free snack.  

Catch the Affirmation Station at these locations: 

  • Monday, April 22, 11-2, at Watson Library 
  • Tuesday, April 23, 11-2, at the Kansas Memorial Union 
  • Thursday, April 25, 11-2, at Wescoe Beach 
  • Friday, April 26, 11-2, at Anschutz Library 

A student speaks with a librarian at a tabling event in Watson Library.

The idea for the station was born out of a brainstorming session by a subcommittee for inclusive and supportive campus activities. Zoe Camarin, one of the students leading the initiative, has always believed in fostering a sense of community on campus.  

“We always need more positivity in the world, and I want to be able to help make that happen,” said Camarin, a freshman from Olathe, Kan., studying psychology (pre-law) with a minor in history. “When the opportunity arose to be part of a project that aligns with these values, I knew I had to get involved.” 

KULSAP, the student-led organization preparing the project, aims to foster student input and involvement in library services and programming. Students in KULSAP work side-by-side with KU Libraries’ leaders to develop strategies for supporting students across all library locations. 

“We are hoping to show support to students at a time when stress levels might be high with deadlines approaching and finals drawing near,” said Undergraduate Engagement Librarian Amber Ovsak, who’s been working with students to facilitate the project. “Our goal is to be student-centered and to find ways to partner with students on programming that is relevant and meaningful to them. We are hoping to replicate this partnership with other student groups across campus wherever opportunities arise.”  

Students interested in becoming members of KULSAP -- a chance to build a solid leadership experience and share their voices with KU Libraries leadership -- can apply by Sept. 6.