Finals Season & De-Stress Fest

This coming Friday marks the last day of instruction. Students are putting the finishing touches on projects and papers. Many are preparing for exams, while some are contemplating their changing circumstances when classes end for the semester (returning home, navigating family dynamics, being away from friends, preparing for a term abroad, etc.). When we think about the student stress calendar, we know this is a time in the semester when students are often feeling depleted while also facing a number of different challenges and striving to do their best work. 

At Whitman, we support students in a number of ways throughout the year, but especially during these times. We want to make sure that students are caring for themselves and prioritizing their own wellbeing as part of their approach to succeeding academically. Getting lots of sleep (none of that all-nighter stuff). Providing their bodies with nutrients that support their health and help them respond to the moment’s cognitive demands. Avoiding negative self-talk and welcoming encouraging words from others. 

It can be difficult to manage stress in these last few weeks, so the college coordinates a number of programs and activities to help students balance their wellness needs with their academic responsibilities. This semester’s De-Stress Fest includes Arts & Cats, Fuel & Focus, and the Puppy Party. (Flyer attached.) 

We also want to make sure that students are comfortable asking for help and leveraging institutional support resources if needed. There are drop-in hours at the Counseling Center from Monday through Friday this week, at 10 a.m. and again at 3 p.m. The Health Center stands ready to support students who might find themselves experiencing illness or injury. The Wellnest is also available in Welty Health Center Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Wellnest is a quiet space for relaxation and rejuvenation with nurturing items like tea, art supplies and lots of other goodies. Students also have access to free telehealth counseling and other on-demand wellness resources through our partner at UWill.com. (Flyer attached.) If students are in need of counseling after hours, they can call the urgent counseling line at 509-527-5588.

As we approach the end of the semester, let’s all be medicine for each other and make sure we are familiar with the resources available to help get the students across that finish line.

Go Blues!