The Student Health Center (SHC) recently announced that, due to popular demand, its free STI testing bundles will be extended until May 9, 2025.
Denise Palecek, assistant director of the SHC, shared details about the accessibility and flexibility of the testing process.
“It is fast and convenient to make an appointment because we’re right here on campus,” Palecek said. “Students can just give us a call, walk in, and usually be seen that same day or the next day.”
The free STI bundle includes a urine test for gonorrhea and chlamydia, and a blood test for syphilis and HIV.
“Students can test both urine and blood…They don’t have to do all of them. It’s all up to the student,” Palecek added.
While the bundle is typically offered for free during April and October, it normally costs $20 other times of the year.
Palecek emphasized the importance of regular testing, noting that many STIs have little to no symptoms and can go undetected for years, potentially causing long-term complications such as abdominal pain, pelvic pain, or infertility.
“Regular screening helps young people protect their future reproductive health and reduces the spread of infections,” she said.
Treatment for STIs is also available on campus, allowing students who test positive to receive care quickly. Palecek emphasized that proactive STI screening helps students take charge of their sexual health.
This sense of support and accessibility is not only echoed by Paleck but also students who believe in promoting health awareness on campus.
Oliver Sanchez (Sophomore, Mathematics) a volunteer at the Student Health Center, encouraged students to make use of the services already available to them.
“I think people should take advantage of it because it’s already included with your tuition,” he said. He also pointed out that students don’t need to be sick to visit. “You can get checked out, and just see how you’re doing.”
Sanchez highlighted the SHC pharmacy as another great resource, adding, “The pharmacy has cheaper prices compared to places like Rite Aid or Safeway.”
With free STI testing bundles currently available, he emphasized the importance of getting tested and staying informed, stating, “It’s important to get tested just in general, especially on a college campus. You never know. Better safe than sorry.”
Jade Lara (Sophomore, Criminal Justice) shared similar thoughts, noting that cost is a major barrier for many students seeking care.
“It being free helps, because a lot of students have issues with the health center being so expensive,” Lara said. “The idea of it being free can encourage students to go more.”
She added that many students are still learning about their health and navigating topics related to sex and STIs.
“A lot of them are just getting out of high school and are still discovering more about their bodies,” Lara said. “It’s important for them to get those resources so they feel more comfortable prioritizing their health and safety.”
She also emphasized that normalizing conversations around sexual health helps reduce stigma and promotes safer decision-making.
With this extended initiative, the Student Health Center hopes to foster a more informed, safe, and healthy student community.
