The consensus on campus seems to be clear: no one wants to get sick. And yet, we’ve been seeing cases on campus steadily since move-in day. “Freshmen flu” and general fall illnesses are expected, but they do seem to strike earlier every year, and they certainly do everything they can to prevent you from settling into the semester.
First and foremost, avoid the spread of illness whenever possible! This can look like staying home or wearing a mask if you feel potential symptoms, or it can look like more preventative steps, such as eating and sleeping consistently. And, of course, if you are under the weather, this campus provides health services that are prepared to support you through a variety of needs.
Just as important as physical health, however, is how you take care of your mental and social health. These things can take a back seat when concerns are raised over our physical health. We have to take more time to rest, we don’t see our friends as much, and our focus tends to scatter.
If you find yourself noticing your grades and due dates slipping away this autumn, the school still has support resources. On the ground floor of Fintel Library, there’s subject tutoring and the writing center. Students often bring in specific assignments for help, but tutors also help identify learning goals and develop lasting study habits. Academic life coaching is also offered, which can help with “identifying both life and academic stressors, establishing goals, renewing focus, and promoting internal motivation”, according to their website.
And, as always, if you find yourself struggling with grades and health, it may be worth it for you to consider the counselling services provided on campus. There are multiple options, ranging individual sessions, group sessions, virtual sessions, and more. Trying these options can be daunting, and you may not be sure if they’ll help you. What I must emphasize is that they aren’t nearly as scary as they seem, and that they won’t hurt. Try them. They almost always help more than you anticipate.
Maggie Raker
Culture, Wellness & Lifestyle Editor
