The Waterfront Activities Center (WAC) is nestled on the shores of Union Bay, the gateway to Lake Washington. We are conveniently located on the south side of Husky Stadium, within a short walk of the University of Washington Link Light Rail Station. From spring through fall we rent kayaks, canoes, and rowboats. Our boat selection can accommodate a single paddler up to a group of four. Come solo, with a group of friends, or with the family!
Resource Type: Health & Wellness
Recreation (Seattle)
Recreational activity and the ability to balance academics with physical engagement is paramount to the success of our students. Through the UW Rec programs, students strive to build communities and experiences outside of the classroom, control stress levels, and set healthy habits for the rest of their lives.
Counseling Center (Seattle)
The Counseling Center offers multiple options for students seeking help coping with stress and mental health concerns. Students who are currently enrolled in degree-seeking programs at the Seattle campus are eligible for our counseling services.
For students who are physically out of state and/or for any student (including in-state) who is in crisis, UW has partnered with Telus to offer the free Husky Helpline. The Husky Helpline gives students access to real-time, confidential mental health and crisis intervention support, 24/7 and in multiple languages. There are several ways to connect:
- Phone: Call (206) 616-7777
- If calling from outside the US or Canada, dial 001.416.380.6578
- Online chat: Chat with a My SSP counselor on the My SSP website or on the My SSP app (Apple App Store | Google Play)
Additional resources:
- The Lifeline & 988: At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
- King County Crisis Connections: If you or a loved one are experiencing a behavioral health crisis, contact Crisis Connections at 206-461-3222.
Student Health & Well-Being (Seattle)
The UW’s Seattle campus offers a wide range of health and wellness services, from exceptional medical care and counseling services to recreation classes, safety resources, peer health advocacy, trainings and more. Most services on this site are limited to currently matriculated Seattle students, while others are open to faculty, staff and the general public. Our goal is to support your health, safety and well-being so you can make the most out of your Husky Experience.
Health Insurance Information
UW does not provide health insurance for domestic students (U.S. citizens, green card holders, permanent residents, along with DACA and undocumented students). However, the UW offers health insurance to two student groups: graduate students whose UW employment positions qualify them for the Graduate Appointee Insurance Program (GAIP) and international students on J1 and F1 student visas via the International Student Health Insurance Program (ISHIP).
Finding a Health Insurance Plan
- If you are a domestic student residing in any Washington state county, and don’t have insurance, you will need to seek insurance through the Washington State Health Plan Finder, Washington state’s health insurance marketplace.
- Domestic students residing in King County can get help on how to use the Washington State Health Plan Finder, by contacting the Community Health Access Program (CHAP) at 1-800-756-5437 or chap@kingcounty.gov or by contacting the UW Hall Health Center at uwhhc@uw.edu.
- International students who have questions about ISHIP can contact the ISHIP counselor at stdins@uw.edu.
- Graduate students with GAIP can reach out to UW HR at uwgaip@uw.edu.