Free STD testing up in air for fall

In past semesters, Peer Educators offered free STD testing to students on campus, but because of the recent closing of the college health center, the group doesn't know what will happen this fall.

"Not having the health services has affected us," sophomore Michael Lozano said.

"We have a lot of students coming to us, asking about the services and where they can find them," he said.

Peer Educators offer free condoms, information on STDs and diabetes, sites for free HIV testing and referrals to counselors.

If they don't have information on something, they will research it for students.

Peer Educators also offer peer counseling.

If students suffer from depression, anxiety, stress or mental or physical disorders, they can find someone to talk to in Peer Educators.

They can also assist in cases of dating violence, drug and alcohol abuse, sexually transmitted infections or cancer.

Nursing sophomore Leticia Sandoval said, "We are not professionals, but we will talk to students if they are having a bad day. We are also students and know what they are going through."

Sandoval is also a work-study student in Peer Educators.

"Everything remains confidential. What is said in here stays in here," she said.

Peer Educators also help for professors with a program called "Don't Cancel That Class."

If a professor is unable to make class, they can request a presentation from the Peer Educators.

Peer Educators are in Room 120 of Chance Academic Center and can be reached at 210-486-1448.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.