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SALT LAKE CITY — While classes were canceled Tuesday, the University of Utah campus remained open, partly so that students in need of emotional support could get that help.
Counselors were available at four locations across campus, ready to talk with anyone feeling troubled after the overnight shooting that took the life of student, Lauren McCluskey. In addition, some students, like Vlada Yaremenko enjoyed a visit with therapy dogs to help calm troubled nerves.
“I actually knew Lauren, and it’s a big loss for us all,” Yaremenko said. “You just see how innocent and helpless these dogs are and how happy they are. No matter how you feel, they will always be there for you.”
Lauren Weitzman, director of university counseling says Tuesday’s response with support for students, faculty, and staff was very similar to what was seen nearly a year ago, when another student, ChenWei Guo was killed in an attempted carjacking.
“I think it does add to the impact for students, for staff, for faculty, certainly for the students who were in the residence halls last year,” Weitzman said.
Whether people seek out counseling or not, Weitzman says those feeling affected by the events overnight, should reach out to someone, even if it’s just a friend.
“I think one of the most important things we can do is to stay connected at these times,” Weitzman said. “Be with people we can talk to, cry with, get hugs from.”
A webpage was also set up where people can share their thoughts of McCluskey: https://continuum.utah.edu/lauren-mccluskey/.
Counselors will continue to be available for the rest of the week, at in the Mindfulness Center, of the Student Services Building, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
