By: Kuldeep Derola, Francis College of Engineering Well-being Leader
When we think about wellness, we often picture hitting the gym, eating greens, or taking mental health days. While all of these are essential to our well-being, there’s one dimension of wellness we often overlook: occupational wellness.
As a college student balancing coursework, jobs, and future plans, I’ve come to realize how much our work, whether academic, professional, or volunteer, shapes our overall well-being. It’s about more than just doing a job; it’s about finding purpose and satisfaction in what we do.
What is Occupational Wellness?
Occupational wellness is about feeling fulfilled in your work or studies. It’s knowing that your daily efforts align with your values, strengths, and future goals. It’s not necessarily about loving every task, but it is about finding meaning, maintaining balance, and continuously growing in your chosen path.
Why It Matters (Especially in College)
College is a unique time where your academic life is usually your main occupation. You’re learning, building a foundation, and discovering what kind of impact you want to make. When we neglect this dimension of wellness, burnout can creep in, motivation can fade, and stress can take over.
When we nurture our occupational wellness, however, it can help us feel:
- More motivated to learn
- Proud of our progress
- Curious to grow
- Connected to our long-term purpose
My Personal Take
As a Well-being Leader, I’ve seen firsthand how students thrive when they find the “why” behind what they’re doing. It could be a mechanical engineering student who lights up in the machine shop, or someone in business who gets excited about a startup pitch. That moment of connection — that “this is what I’m meant to do” feeling — that’s occupational wellness.
For me, I found fulfillment not just through academics but also by helping others, whether it was through tutoring, community outreach, or collaborating on student initiatives. These experiences weren’t just resume-builders; they gave me a real sense of purpose.
How to Cultivate Occupational Wellness
Here are a few simple ways you can build on this pillar of wellness:
- Reflect Regularly: What parts of your work excite you? What feels draining? Journaling or talking to a mentor can help you gain clarity.
- Set Meaningful Goals: Whether it’s acing a class, leading a project, or landing an internship, make sure your goals align with what matters to you.
- Seek Balance: Work hard, but don’t forget to rest. Balance fuels sustainability.
- Celebrate Progress: Big or small, your wins count. Acknowledge your growth.
- Stay Curious: Try new roles, clubs, or internships. You might discover strengths you never knew you had.
Final Thoughts
Occupational wellness isn’t about having your whole career figured out today. It’s about being engaged, open to growth, and connected to something bigger than a paycheck or GPA. Whether you’re discovering a passion or refining a skill, know that every step you take brings you closer to becoming the best version of yourself.
Let’s support each other as we build not just our careers, but meaningful lives.
I’m available at Falmouth-203A every Monday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM to offer a safe space for you to express your challenges.
Citations: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2016). Wellness Initiative: Eight Dimensions of Wellness. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov