Asking For Academic Help

Posted on 8 October, 2024 by fajr_zahid@uml.edu

By: Madelyn Archambault, Francis College of Engineering Well-Being Leader

In my experience, asking for help can be terrifying. My freshman year, I started really struggling in my classes. Since it was the first time I had ever faced academic challenges, I had no idea what to do, and I felt like I was alone in my struggles. I wasn’t sure how to connect with tutors, and I thought if I went to office hours, the teachers would judge me more than they would help me. It took me a while to work up the confidence to seek guidance, but once I did, I started spending significantly less time struggling alone since I had others to help me fill in the gaps of my knowledge.

The first step to learning how to ask for help was by reaching out to my peers. By doing so, I realized that others also struggled at times with school. We started Discord servers meant to help students in our classes, and soon, they became a place where we could comfortably ask each other questions. We started scheduling time to work together on homework, and it was so helpful to be able to talk through different problems with other students.

Another way I connected to peers was through tutoring. Math was a particularly tricky subject for me, but I soon found that my classmates in other classes were all on different levels when it came to math. I started doing all of my homework in the math tutoring center, which became an environment that I really enjoyed working in. Some homework assignments I could breeze through by myself, but utilizing the math tutoring center was still helpful, as it gave me whiteboard space to visually lay out my thoughts. On other homework, I would get halfway through a problem and then get completely stuck. In these situations, the math tutoring center would give me the opportunity to ask other students who had already passed the class for help. They would work with me and recommend strategies that really benefited me on tests and quizzes. I also gained help from the Centers for Learning and Student Success (CLASS) tutors. They helped me with classes that didn’t have big tutoring rooms, and through them, I was able to find tutors who specialized in my major-specific classes. Overall, connecting with peers who had already experienced the classes I was taking was one of the best things I could have done to support my academic journey.

It wasn’t until my sophomore year, however, that I started to go to office hours hosted by professors. It was extremely beneficial to have 1 on 1 time with professors to review homework problems, since it is easier for me to grasp concepts when they are privately explained to me, rather than in front of the entire class. From my experience with utilizing office hours, I have found that it works best to come prepared with questions that I want to ask the professor. Even if these questions do not end up getting addressed, I still find them to be a helpful reference point for what I want to learn in that session.

Classes can be challenging, but seeking guidance can help relieve some of the burden and make you feel less alone. To connect with tutors and find support for classes, you can use this link: https://www.uml.edu/class/tutoring/tutor-schedule/. If you do find yourself struggling academically, I also highly recommend scheduling a meeting with a Well-Being Leader: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx.

Social Wellness: Building Meaningful Connections

Posted on 8 October, 2024 by fajr_zahid@uml.edu

By: Kuldeep Derola, Francis College of Engineering Well-being Leader

Social wellness, one of the eight key dimensions of wellness, is all about cultivating meaningful relationships and building a sense of belonging. It emphasizes the importance of having healthy, supportive connections with friends, family, and the broader community. These relationships not only provide emotional support, but they also contribute to overall well-being by reducing stress and improving mental health. Studies even suggest that people with strong social ties tend to live longer, healthier lives.

To enhance social wellness, it’s important to actively engage with those around us, whether it’s through social networks, community groups, or professional settings. Participating in activities such as volunteering, joining clubs, or simply spending quality time with loved ones can strengthen social bonds. These interactions can also help create a sense of community, prevent loneliness, and contribute to our personal growth.

Achieving social wellness requires effective communication and empathy. It’s about listening, understanding, and resolving conflicts in a way that nurtures trust and mutual respect. In a world where digital interactions dominate, prioritizing in-person connections is vital for building deeper, more authentic relationships.

Ultimately, by focusing on social wellness, we can lead more fulfilling lives, grounded in meaningful connections with those around us, while contributing to the collective well-being of our communities.

As a Well-being Leader, I can help students enhance their social wellness by:

Encouraging active participation in social networks and campus groups to promote engagement.
Offering resources and support to help students prioritize and enhance their social wellness.

I’m available at Southwick Hall-250B (Deans’ Office) 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:

American Psychological Association. “The Importance of Social Support.” APA, 2021. (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-61462-004)
World Health Organization. “Mental Health and Social Well-being: Integrating Care.” WHO, 2020. (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response)

Embracing Your Inner Superhero

Posted on 8 October, 2024 by fajr_zahid@uml.edu

By: Shaili Patel, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader

Hi there! I’m Shaili Patel, one of your Well-Being Leaders here at UMass Lowell. As a senior Biology major with a Pre-Med concentration, I’ve spent a lot of time juggling classes, lab work, and enough coffee to fill a small pond. Along the way, I’ve also had the joy of being a Peer Tutor, Learning Assistant, Orientation Leader, Lab Assistant, and, of course, your go-to Well-Being Leader.

Now, let’s talk about something that’s close to many of our hearts: self-confidence and self-love.

These two topics can feel like mythical creatures, like unicorns, or, like those legendary 8-hour nights of sleep. But, just like any superhero story, these powers are hidden within all of us, waiting for the right moment (or a really good motivational playlist) to emerge.

Self-Confidence: The Superpower You Didn’t Know You Had

Self-confidence is that inner voice that tells you, “yes, you can totally nail that exam!” — even when you’re low-key panicking on the inside. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about knowing you’re capable. I get it, between assignments, labs, and trying to maintain a social life (or, you know, Netflix), it’s easy to doubt yourself.

But think about it this way: every small win counts. Did you make it to class on time today? Boom! That’s a win. Managed to answer a question in class, even if your voice cracked a little? Double boom! Being confident isn’t about never being afraid; it’s about showing up, cracks and all, and saying, “I got this.” And trust me, you do!

Self-Love: Treating Yourself Like Your Best Friend (Because You Are)

Here’s the thing: you’re stuck with yourself for life. So, it’s a good idea to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d give to a friend. Self-love means not beating yourself up when things don’t go perfectly (looking at you, Organic Chemistry), and recognizing that taking a break is part of success, not a sign of failure.

You wouldn’t tell your best friend, “you’re terrible at this, and you’ll never be good enough,” so why say something like that to yourself? Newsflash: you’re pretty awesome. You’ve made it this far, haven’t you? That’s proof enough that you’ve got some serious resilience.

The Half-Full Glass of Life

As someone who loves to see the glass half full (preferably with iced coffee), I’m here to remind you that perspective is everything. College life can be tough, no doubt about it. But it’s also an adventure — a time to learn, grow, and sometimes laugh at your mistakes (like that time I signed up for an 8 AM class. Never again.)

So, let’s make a deal: the next time things get tough, take a breath, give yourself a mental high-five, and remember you’re a superhero in training. Self-confidence and self-love aren’t about having it all figured out; they’re about showing up, trying, and remembering that you’re more than enough — even on the days when you feel like a potato in sweatpants.

You’ve got this. Now go out there and be your amazing self, because the world (and UMass Lowell) needs you at your best — which, in case you forgot, is pretty darn incredible.

P.S. Don’t forget to hydrate. Superheroes drink lots of water. Or iced coffee. Both count.

Your friend,

Shaili

Thank You For Letting Me Be Your KCS Well-being Leader

Posted on 1 May, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Yashvi Patel, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader

As I sit down to write my final blog post as your Well-being Leader, I am filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. These past two years have been a journey of growth, reflection, and connection. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this initiative dedicated to promoting holistic well-being for students here at UMass Lowell. Yet, as I bid farewell, I also look ahead with excitement as I pursue my dreams of entering dental school.

Throughout my journey as a Well-being Leader, one lesson that has resonated with me above all is the importance of prioritizing mental health. I’ve learned firsthand that to be a source of light in other’s lives, I have to first tend to my own well-being. Through self-care practices and a renewed focus on the eight dimensions of well-being, I have seen improvements in different realms of life, not only in my academic performance but also through a profound shift in my outlook on life.

Before stepping into the role of a Well-being Leader, I struggled with pessimism. However, throughout my experiences in this position, I have found healing for myself and have had the privilege of accompanying others in their healing journeys. Now, I feel that advocating for mental health awareness has become a personal mission, and I am proud to have connected with many individuals throughout this process who have lived through the same struggles as me. For example, as a freshman who entered UML during covid in 2020, I had a hard time navigating through my classes and adjusting to life on campus. Not only that, I was a commuter, so I benefited from staying involved in extracurricular activities and clubs where I found like-minded individuals with the same interests as me. I have interacted with other commuter students who have expressed similar concerns surrounding making new friends and getting involved. Sharing my personal experiences has allowed me to offer ways to have others go about resolving a similar issue of loneliness.

I would say the most transformative lesson I have learned is empathy. While I may not always understand someone else’s experiences, I have discovered that simply being present and listening holds so much power. In my interactions with others, I have come to realize that while I may not single-handedly change lives, I can provide a supportive starting point for individuals to consider their own well-being, one step at a time.

As I transition into dental school, I will carry with me the invaluable skill of connecting with others on a personal level. My experience as a Well-being Leader has equipped me with effective strategies for building trust in the context of dental visits. By fostering genuine connections and monitoring progress over time, I have gained insights into the transformative impact of personalized care on patient outcomes.

Above all, this journey has taught me the importance of self-check-ins as I navigate the various stages of life, whether it’s through school, work, family, or personal endeavors. Prioritizing self-care allows us to show up as our best selves for others and embrace the joys of life.

As I close this chapter and embark on the next stage of my journey, I extend my deepest gratitude for allowing me to serve as your Well-being Leader. Your support and shared experiences have shaped me in ways that I will forever cherish. Here’s to the continuation of our individual and collective paths toward greater well-being and fulfillment.

The Importance of Taking Breaks

Posted on 26 April, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Sai Igiede, Zuckerberg College of Sciences Well-being Leader

Hey guys, it’s Sai. As I am writing to whoever is reading, I am taking a long-needed and well-deserved break, and you should too! Even if it’s for a second.

When it comes to breaks, it is important to make sure that you not only give yourself time to relieve stress but also allow yourself the appropriate time to avoid falling behind.

I often ask myself three questions when it comes to taking a break to make sure I am taking not only meaningful ones but also ones that will help me excel later on:

Do I need this break right now or later? If so, which will be more beneficial for me right at this moment?
Will this break have more positive effects than negative ones? If so, how will I make up for the lost time later on?
How do I make sure I successfully get back to work/my main objectives once my break is over?

These three questions help me balance out whether I need a break, how long the break should be, and what I should be doing before during, and after the break, as well. Being able to listen to your body is something a lot of us (especially in college) don’t do often as we are very hyper-fixated on things like grades and our personal lives, which is very valid. However, we also need to understand that we are human beings with real emotions and know ourselves best So, when you think you need to put down your laptop and breathe in and out even for a second, do it! Regroup yourself, maybe even get a snack, and then resume, and I think you will feel much better.

Reflection on My “Wellness in Bloom” Comic Guide

Posted on 17 April, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Doa Jamal, Francis College of Engineering Well-being Leaders

This semester, I chose to do my honors project for the Honors College. At first, I was having trouble deciding on what to do. Last fall, I took the Graphic Novels in Science and Medicine course as an Honors College elective. I enjoyed the class as it was the first class that allowed me to draw, which I don’t usually do during the academic year. The only times I draw are usually during the Summer or sometimes during school vacations as a way to relax. I would say this was the class I enjoyed the most during my entire four undergraduate years. The final project was to make a mini graphic novella where the booklet told a short story. The goal was to create something meaningful to us. Almost immediately, I knew I wanted to do something related to well-being because being a well-being leader has made such a meaningful impact on me. I also know that I am not adept at drawing humans, so I chose to make my characters flowers. The flowers also go along with the idea of growth and well-being blooming.

Working on the project to create a small booklet teaching about the eight dimensions of wellness through comics was an incredibly rewarding experience. It provided me with the opportunity to combine my passion for both art and wellness education in a creative and engaging way.

The eight dimensions of wellness encompass various aspects of a person’s life, promoting holistic well-being. These dimensions include physical, emotional, social, intellectual, occupational, environmental, spiritual, and financial wellness. Each dimension addresses different facets of life, from maintaining physical health to fostering meaningful relationships, pursuing personal growth, finding purpose in work, connecting with nature, nurturing spirituality, and managing finances responsibly. Prioritizing these dimensions is crucial as they collectively contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life. Neglecting any dimension can lead to imbalances, affecting overall health and happiness. By striving to enhance each dimension, individuals can cultivate resilience, improve their quality of life, and experience a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

One of the most fulfilling parts of this project was the creative freedom I had in designing the comics. Being able to draw everything by hand allowed me to infuse each illustration with personality and convey complex concepts in a visually appealing manner. I found that the process of sketching, refining, and digitally editing the illustrations in Photoshop was both enjoyable and therapeutic. It allowed me to immerse myself in the project and truly bring the content to life. Although spending continuous hours in front of a screen to thoroughly Photoshop the images did almost drive me insane. Now I better understand art students.

However, creating a booklet solely through comics presented its own set of challenges. I had to strike a balance between conveying information effectively and ensuring that the comics remained engaging and easy to understand. This required careful planning and attention to detail in both the artwork and the accompanying text. I found myself constantly revising and refining each comic to ensure that it effectively communicated the key principles of the eight dimensions of wellness.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from this project was the importance of collaboration and feedback. Throughout the process, I sought input from my mentor to ensure that the content resonated with the target audience and effectively conveyed the intended message. Incorporating feedback allowed me to refine the comics further and improve the overall quality of the booklet.

Moreover, working on this project reinforced the importance of wellness and self-care in my own life. As I delved deeper into the eight dimensions of wellness, I found myself reflecting on my own habits and practices related to physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This project served as a reminder to prioritize self-care and make conscious efforts to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, working on the project to create a booklet teaching about the eight dimensions of wellness through comics was a fulfilling and enriching experience. It allowed me to combine my passion for art and wellness education while learning valuable lessons about creativity, collaboration, and self-care. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked on this project and am excited to see how it will positively impact others on their journey towards improved well-being.

Healthy Ways to Cope With Rejection

Posted on 12 April, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Alejandra Malaga Walters, Francis College of Engineering Well-being Leader

As you go through life, you will inevitably encounter rejection. Understand that you can overcome these painful feelings and move forward. Remember that you are not alone, and your experience is valid. It takes vulnerability and courage to keep trying in the face of rejection, and you can get somewhere amazing when you continue pushing forward.

Throughout life, everyone faces rejection in various forms, whether it’s being denied a desired job, being turned down for a date, or experiencing the end of a relationship with a friend or romantic partner. Sometimes, we interpret a rejection as universal, believing it reflects our overall worth rather than the circumstances of that situation. This cognitive distortion can magnify the impact of rejection, leading to feelings of anxiety, negativity, or depression. However, it’s important to recognize that these thoughts are not reflective of reality and to always seek ways to challenge them.

Practicing journaling and mindfulness can help increase awareness of our thoughts and feelings, and seeking professional help can provide valuable support in challenging and reframing negative beliefs about ourselves. Rejection can be harsh, whether delivered rudely or gently, and it’s normal to experience a strong emotional reaction to it. It’s okay to feel upset or hurt for a while, as emotions don’t adhere to a strict timeline.

Here are some healthy ways to cope with and grow from rejection:

Let go of self-blame: While rejection may sometimes result from our mistakes, dwelling on blame can hinder our progress.

See growth opportunities: Even in the face of rejection, there’s an opportunity to learn and improve for the future.

Engage in self-care: Be kind to yourself, especially when dealing with rejection-sensitive dysphoria, and utilize coping mechanisms to take care of your well-being.

Feel your emotions: It’s important to acknowledge and honor your feelings rather than bottling them up, as suppressing them can intensify them later on.

List your successes: Remind yourself of past successes to counteract the feeling of rejection being all-encompassing.

As you navigate through life, remember that rejection is a natural part of the human experience. By acknowledging your feelings and seeking support when needed, you can overcome the pain of rejection and move forward with resilience. Your experiences are valid, and it takes courage to continue pursuing your goals in the face of rejection.

References:

How to Deal With Rejection: Types, Coping Tips (verywellmind.com)

Transformation: From Newcomer to Campus Leader

Posted on 12 April, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Medi Woldemichael, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

When I arrived on campus as an international student, I felt utterly lost. Everything was new and confusing, from the campus layout to the academic system. I remember thinking, “How will I ever find my place here?”

As I prepare to graduate this May, I look back at that version of myself with a gentle smile, proud of the transformation I have undergone. From a state of bewilderment, I have evolved into one of the most involved students on campus, a journey that not only built my confidence, but also expanded my social network extensively.

At first, I kept to myself, overwhelmed by the new environment. But I realized that to make the most of my college years, I needed to get involved. So, I started small. I joined clubs like IBA and Finance Society that are related to my major, attended campus events, and gradually began to feel more at home.

Getting involved changed everything. I met people from diverse backgrounds, learned about different cultures, and started building a network that went beyond just making friends—it was about creating connections that would last a lifetime.

Before I knew it, I was not just participating; I was leading. I took on roles that challenged me, and pushed me to learn and grow:

Student Government Association, Senator at Large: I represented a diverse student body, articulating their needs and concerns in decision-making forums.

Student Alumni Ambassador: I acted as a bridge between current students and alumni, organizing networking events and fostering connections.

Finance Society, Secretary: I managed administrative tasks and communication between club members, fostering a structured environment for learning more about my major: finance.

International Business Association, Chief Financial Officer: I oversaw budgeting and financial planning for the association, ensuring resources were appropriately allocated for events and activities. I also participated in several key conferences, which allowed me to engage with industry professionals and gain insights into global business trends. This experience was instrumental in broadening my understanding of my second major international business

Orientation Leader: I guided new students during their transition to college life, providing support and information about campus resources. I also built my leadership and communication skills through this position.

Well-being Leader: I promoted health and well-being initiatives on campus, creating awareness and organizing wellness programs. Additionally, I wrote original blog posts each month on topics of well-being. This blog will be my last as I am graduating in May. I hope you have enjoyed these posts and found them helpful in improving your daily life and overall well-being.

With each new responsibility, my confidence surged. I was no longer just showing up to college; I was showing out.

Now, as I stand on the brink of graduation, I realize that college is indeed what you make of it. Your experiences, choices, and interactions shape your college life.

For those just starting their college journey or those feeling lost, here are a few tips:

Get Involved: Join clubs or societies that align with your interests. It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and find your tribe. Check out UMass Lowell’s Engage website to discover organizations on campus.
Be Curious: Attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures. Education does not need to be confined to the classroom.
Volunteer: Give your time to causes you care about. It’s rewarding and a great way to build connections. View UMass Lowell’s list of Community Connections.
Speak Up: Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your ideas, or seek help. Your voice matters.
Explore: College is the perfect time to try new things. Embrace the unknown with an open heart and mind.

Now, as I reflect on my college years, I see how each step I took to get involved helped shape me into a more confident and connected individual. I didn’t just attend college; I made it a memorable and transformative experience. For anyone feeling uncertain about how to navigate college life, remember that it’s all about taking those first small steps to engage with the world around you.

Improve Your Well-being

Posted on 10 April, 2024 by julia_yeadon@uml.edu

By: Mia Andrade, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader

Self-care is all about ensuring that your physical and emotional needs are met. I think self-care is one of my favorite aspects of well-being. I enjoy dedicating certain days to self-care and find joy in skin care and hair care routines. The relaxing and de-stressing feeling of throwing on a robe and a face mask on a Sunday evening is an example of an ideal self-care activity that I love to do! Let’s explore different types of self-care to improve your well-being.

Social Self-Care

Close connections are important to your well-being, as we have close people in our lives who care about us. As college students, our lives become busy, but it is important to make some time to meet your social needs.

Questions to consider:

What are you doing to nurture your relationships with friends and family?
Are you getting enough face-to-face time with your friends?

Spiritual Self-Care

Nurturing your spirit can come in many ways and allows one to develop a deeper sense of meaning and understanding of life. Spiritual self-care is essential, whether you enjoy meditation, praying, or attending a religious service.

Questions to consider:

Are you engaging in spiritual practices that you find fulfilling?
What deeper questions do you ask yourself about life and experience?

Mental Self-Care

Our minds are the most powerful tools in our lives, and self-care activities have the power to help you stay mentally healthy. Some examples include practicing self-love and compassion, affirmations, or even reading a book.

Questions to consider:

Are you doing fulfilling things to help you stay mentally healthy?
Are you making enough time for activities that mentally stimulate you?

Emotional Self-Care

Emotional self-care allows us to develop healthy coping skills to deal with uncomfortable emotions, such as anxiety and sadness. It’s important to incorporate emotional self-care into your life, whether that involves setting aside time for leisure activities or talking to a friend about how you’re feeling. Therapy and counseling (UML Counseling Services) are also helpful activities of emotional self-care.

Questions to consider:

Do you incorporate activities into your life that help you feel recharged?
Do you have healthy ways to process your emotions?

Physical Self-Care

Taking care of your body is crucial to your well-being. The mind and body have a strong connection, and we think better when we care about our bodies. Participation in physical activity and caring for your physical needs are key examples of physical self-care. Caring for your physical needs is often overlooked and should be prioritized. Some examples of this involve attending healthcare appointments, taking medications as prescribed, getting enough rest, managing stress, etc.

Questions to consider:

Are you getting enough exercise?
Are you getting adequate sleep?
Are you taking charge of your health?

Good self-care takes on many forms and involves doing what you enjoy. Some areas of your well-being may require more self-care than others, so it is important to ask yourself these questions and discover what works best for you.

“Self-care is important because it helps re-establish balance and avoid burnout. It is often the mechanism of recalibrating and getting in touch with our ability to play, have fun, relax, and connect.”

– Sabrina Romanoff

Student Life and Well-being

UMass Lowell Blog

Category Archives: Emotional Health

Embracing Your Inner Superhero

The Importance of Taking Breaks