High Hopes has new name

A student group at Binghamton University has high hopes that its name change will lead to more Bearcats seeking its services.

SEEK (Support Empathy Empowerment Kindness), formerly known as High Hopes, is a student-run, non-emergency helpline for students.

“Sometimes students just need to talk to someone about whatever they are going through,” said Michael Kuhl, president of SEEK. “We know that sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone your own age, someone who may understand exactly what you are going through, instead of talking to an adult, and that’s why we are here.”

SEEK call handlers undergo rigorous training through the University Counseling Center (UCC) and Career Development Centralized Internship Program (CDCI) through the Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development. They learn about a variety of topics and skills as well as on- and off-campus resources as part of this internship.

“Coming to college can be a difficult transition for some students, so we want to be able to help guide them through their journey. We can help students with big decisions, academic issues, dealing with stress, life changes, grief, mental health concerns, a difficult day and more,” Kuhl said.

Students can call 607-777-HELP (4357) from 8−11 p.m. any time classes are in session.

“With our new name SEEK, we are bringing a spirited approach to helping students, providing support, empathy and empowerment while doing it with kindness. Members of SEEK bring heart and positivity to every call,” Kuhl said.

The High Hopes Helpline was originally an in-person resource established in the 1970s. In 2012, High Hopes was relaunched as a crisis call center and a hotline that was always open and available to both the campus and the surrounding community. It was shut down in 2013 due to a lack of oversight.

After a reorganization, the High Hopes Helpline was relaunched Feb. 1, 2016. The internship has been expanding in numbers, training and services ever since.