Category Archives: Intellectual Health

INTELLECTUAL HEALTH

Valuing lifelong learning and seeking to learn for the sake of learning. Seeking to expand knowledge, skills, and creative abilities for the sake of learning.

Is Your Brain a Smooth Bagel or a Jumbled Mess?

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

Hey River Hawks! Shaili here, back again with another brain-boosting chat. Today, we’re  diving into a hot topic: multitasking. Is it the ultimate productivity hack or just a recipe for  mental chaos? Let’s break it down with a delicious bagel and cream cheese analogy. Stay  with me on this one. 

The Great Bagel Balancing Act 

Imagine your brain is a warm, toasty, perfectly golden bagel, and your thoughts and tasks  are all the toppings you want to spread on it. Now, multitasking is like trying to spread  cream cheese on five bagels at once. Instead of getting a smooth, delicious bite, you end  up with a messy, uneven layer with clumps in some spots, and bare patches in others. 

The Pros: When Multitasking Kinda Works 

Let’s be real, sometimes, multitasking can be a lifesaver. Here’s when it actually helps: 

• Quick, Low-Effort Tasks: Listening to music while folding laundry? Absolutely.  Watching a lecture while meal prepping? Maybe. Your brain can handle one passive  task alongside an active one. 

• Boosting Creativity: Ever had a brilliant idea while doodling in class? Sometimes,  doing something mindless lets your brain wander and make unexpected  connections. 

• Maximizing Downtime: If you’re waiting in line or on a treadmill, listening to a  podcast can make the time fly while learning something new. 

The Cons: When Multitasking Turns Your Brain into a Crumbly Bagel 

Here’s the not-so-fun part; multitasking doesn’t always work the way we hope. 

• Divided Attention = Sloppy Work: Just like a poorly spread bagel, when your focus is  all over the place, things can get messy. Studies show multitasking can reduce  efficiency and lead to more mistakes 

• Brain Burnout: Constantly switching between tasks is like making a bagel sandwich,  taking it apart, and starting over again and again. Exhausting, right? Your brain needs  time to transition between tasks, and too much switching can leave you drained.

• Fake Productivity: Answering emails while studying might ‘feel’ productive, but in  reality, neither task gets your full attention. It’s like biting into a bagel and realizing  you forgot the cream cheese altogether. Oof. 

The Better Approach: Smarter Spreading 

Instead of juggling five bagels at once, focus on one and give it the cream cheese love it  deserves. 

• The 25-Minute Rule: Try the Pomodoro technique, which means working on one task  for 25 minutes, then taking a break. Your brain will thank you. 

• Batch Similar Tasks: Complete similar tasks together like responding to emails,  reading assignments, or brainstorming ideas instead of bouncing between different  tasks. 

• Mindful Multitasking: If you ‘must’ multitask, pair a passive task (like listening to  instrumental music) with an active one (like studying). 

Final Takeaway: Toast Wisely! 

Your brain, like a bagel, has limited surface area. Spread your focus wisely so each task  gets the attention it deserves. The next time you think about juggling five things at once, ask  yourself: Do I want a satisfying, perfectly layered bagel, or a chaotic, cream-cheese  catastrophe? 

Stay sharp, stay fabulous, and as always hydrate! (Yes, even bagels taste better with a sip  of water.) 

Your friend, 

Shaili 

P.S. What’s your go-to bagel order? (Mine is Asiago bagel with jalapeño cream cheese)

Life Lessons from Little Ones

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

I think out of everything I have done, working with kids is one of my proudest achievements. Throughout my career, I have worked as a group leader, substitute teacher, creative arts coordinator, and now as a theatre and creative movement teacher. People often tell me how I must be a good role model or how I must teach kids so much. I often chuckle when they say this because, in reality, the kids are the ones who teach me so much. 

One of the biggest lessons kids have taught me is to always have hope. About a year ago, I was going through a really difficult period in my life when I felt more alone than ever. There were some days when getting out of bed was hard, but my biggest motivator to start my day was the kids. During these difficult times, I would think to myself how lucky I am to have kids to work with. They have so much strength; they can get into a fight with a friend, talk it out, and make up. They can have a small injury and still be ready to play pickle the next hour. You can give a kid a paper bag, and they will somehow find a way to make a puppet out of it. I always find it ironic when adults criticize kids. Kids go to school for 8 hours, participate in multiple sports, and play instruments, all while dealing with hormones and ever-changing social circles. Kids have taught me that even when you are distraught, in pain, and feel alone, you can get through it, and it will be okay. You will make it through the rain, as they have proven to me. 

I would also say that kids have a great deal of confidence. They are like an unblemished white shirt, but as they get older, this shirt can become stained like a coffee ring on a table. During work, I play silly games with kids where we act out being pirates or aliens at disco parties. I always emphasize to them that no choice is too weird or too bold when acting, and this helps them really get into their characters. As I get older, I fear many things: losing my Arabian locks and, most importantly, losing my spirit. As people age, they often get stuck in patterns regarding whom they choose to be friends with, what hobbies they pursue, and the places they go. 

Seeing how resilient kids are and their ability to go with the flow motivates me to explore my life. Every month, I have a goal to try something new, whether it is axe throwing, going to a Brazilian lounge, or disappearing to Alaska for two weeks. Humility is also important. Let me say this: in my 22 years in this universe, I have met more rude adults than I have children. I have seen grown adults belittle other adults without ever apologizing, or even worse, spread rumors about one another. I think that as adults, our pride often imprisons us in a golden cage. We tend to believe that our way of thinking about politics, relationships, and social class is the only way. Children, on the other hand, have a natural curiosity to understand others.

So, next time you are judging someone, approach them with childlike curiosity. Ask yourself: Why might they be doing this? What did their mom or dad teach them that led them to be this way? Are they having a bad day? Should I give them a hug? Kids will fight each other, but they also forgive each other. Overall, I ask you to approach your life with the same level of curiosity and love that kids do, because the difference it makes might be greater than you ever imagined.

Take a Break: The Secret Sauce to Study Success

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

Hey River Hawks! It’s Shaili again, back with another pep talk. Today, we’re tackling one of the most underrated secrets to success: taking breaks. Yes, you heard me right—stepping away from the grind isn’t just okay; it’s essential!

If you’re anything like me, juggling classes, labs, and enough caffeine to power a small city, the idea of taking a break might seem counterproductive. But trust me on this: breaks are like halftime in a championship game. They give you a chance to recharge, refocus, and come back stronger.

The Science Behind the Pause:
Ever notice how your brain starts to feel like slush after hours of studying? That’s because our minds, like our favorite slushy drinks, can only handle so much before things start to melt down. Studies show that taking regular breaks improves focus, memory, and overall productivity. It’s like hitting the “refresh” button on your brain—no blender required.

Breaks Are Not a Sign of Weakness (They’re a Power Move!)
Let’s be real: in college, the hustle culture is strong. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “If I’m not working, I’m falling behind.” But here’s the thing: overworking can actually slow you down. Taking a step back doesn’t mean you’re slacking; it means you’re smart enough to know when to recharge.

Think of it this way: even superheroes need a breather. Batman has the Batcave. Wonder Woman has Themyscira. You? You’ve got the UML quads, your favorite Starbucks, or even your cozy Fox Hall room.

How to Make the Most of Your Breaks:

  1. Move It, Move It!
    A quick walk around campus, some stretches, or even a mini dance party (cue your favorite playlist!) can work wonders for your energy levels. Bonus points if you do it outside—sunlight is like a mood booster on steroids.
  2. Hydrate Like a Pro
    Remember, superheroes drink water. A quick hydration break can help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your next study session.
  3. Snack Smart
    Step away from the vending machine chips and grab something that fuels your brain, such as nuts, fruit, or a piece of dark chocolate (because you deserve it).
  4. Do Nothing (Seriously)
    Sometimes, the best break is no break at all. Sit, breathe, and just let your mind wander. You’ll be surprised how much clarity you find when you stop forcing yourself to think.

Think of breaks like the ice in a slushy—they add texture and make the whole experience cooler. Without them, life (and studying) feels a little bland and way too overheated. So, treat your breaks as a necessary ingredient for success, not an afterthought.

Now, let’s make a pact. The next time you feel like you’re drowning in assignments, promise me this: you’ll take a break. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 15, give yourself the space to breathe, reset, and remember why you’re working so hard in the first place.

You’ve got this, River Hawks. Stay fabulous, stay focused, and don’t forget—the best version of you is a well-rested one.

P.S. Hydration check! Slushies are delicious, but water is still your best friend.

Your friend,
Shaili

The Science Behind Taking Breaks

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

With impending finals, and many projects and assignments to complete, it is critical to remember to take breaks. When you spend too much time focusing on one singular task, you start to burn out your brain. Research shows that taking breaks can significantly improve your studying and improve your focus. Taking a break can help you and your brain refresh. 

What qualifies as a good break? It can be anything that encourages you to move, get creative or socialize! A good break can range from a 5 minute stretch to a 50 minute workout. Trying to break up the monotonous routine of constant working can help make those study sessions easier and more productive. 

One of the biggest traps is turning to social media or technology for a break. A recent study found that using social media as a break can drain your mental energy. Taking phone breaks can slow down your progress instead of helping you recharge. 

The Unwind Your Mind campaign, launched by UMass Lowell’s Office of Student Life & Well-Being, focuses on moving away from technology and exploring healthier, alternative activities to recharge. You can read about some of the work the office has done so far to help promote digital wellness here: https://www.uml.edu/news/stories/2024/unwind-your-mind.aspx

If you’re unsure how to utilize your break time, here are some suggestions: 

  • Go for a walk
  • Take a shower
  • Meditate
  • Stretch
  • Call a friend
  • Have a good meal

Taking a break looks different for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether it’s a quick walk, reading a book, or simply breathing deeply, what matters is stepping back, letting go of responsibilities, and giving yourself the time and space to truly relax and unwind. You deserve it.

Citations:

https://health.cornell.edu/about/news/study-breaks-stress-busters

https://www.bustle.com/p/taking-a-break-by-looking-at-social-media-doesnt-help-your-mind-reset-a-new-study-says-18682642
https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/taking-breaks/

The Importance of Staying Organized

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By: Nokomis Bramantecohen, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

Commonly mentioned as the secret to success, the concept of organization is more than simply meeting deadlines and acing tests. It is an essential skill that can benefit us in our personal, professional, and academic lives. Creating and keeping an organized environment can help us be more productive, feel less stressed, and balance the numerous responsibilities within life. I have developed a structure that helps me personally stay grounded, calm, and on top of my obligations, and because of this, organization has become a crucial component within my daily routine. 

My Organizational System: The Three Planners

To manage the various aspects of my daily life, I rely on a combination of tools that cater to my different needs. For my day to day activities, I use a calendar in which I note down key commitments such as my class schedules, work shifts, field hockey practices and games, doctor and dentist appointments, and other broad activities and events. Using a calendar helps me see a visual layout of everything that I hope to complete within the month. This serves as the backbone of my system for organization, helping to ensure that I can plan out my time effectively and avoid overcommitment. 

For academic-related responsibilities, I use another notebook/dedicated planner. In this notebook, I first write the date, and then I start listing the classes that I am taking. Under each class, I draw little squares and jot down upcoming  assignments, so when I finish an assignment, the box gets checked off. In this notebook, I write down all of my assignments, upcoming exams, and project deadlines. Drawing the little boxes and then checking them off once they are completed makes me feel rewarded as it allows me to prioritize important tasks and track my progress. Having a separate space for organizing academic work also ensures that I can focus on my studies without feeling overwhelmed by other responsibilities. 

In addition to my calendar and notebook/planner, I also use a large notepad (shown above) with a fun template, which serves as a complex to-do list. This to-do list is divided into various sections such as “Top Priorities,” “For Tomorrow,” and “Don’t Forget.” It also includes a general area to write down upcoming tasks  and even a small notes section. This notepad is where I track my personal tasks that are not academic or work related. For example, I will jot down activities related to field hockey, household chores, meetings and calls, appointments, etc. here. These methods of organization help me create a nice separation of personal life and academic life, while maintaining clarity and focus on what needs immediate attention. 

Finally, I use a journal to reflect on my emotions and process my thoughts in a positive manner. Journaling has been a valuable tool for my emotional well-being, and being able to dedicate a space to let out all of my different emotions allows me to see a new perspective on life. Having this safe space that allows me to be my most vulnerable self helps me manage stress and maintain my overall mental health! 

The Importance of Organization

The benefits of staying organized extend far beyond school and into every stage of life. In high school and college, practicing organizational skills can help us manage coursework, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. However, as we transition further into adulthood, responsibilities and expectations tend to pile up. As for our future careers, managers and bosses often expect efficient time management, stellar organization, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks at once. Without strong organizational skills, it can become easy to feel overwhelmed or fall behind. 

In the professional world, being organized can also help set you apart from other employees. Managers and bosses value people who can meet deadlines, stay on top of projects, and pay attention to details. Strong organizational skills often  demonstrate reliability, which can help build professional success. In personal life, staying organized can also help improve relationships, reduce stress, and free up time for the things that truly matter, like spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies that you have an interest in. 

Organization isn’t just about productivity; it is about creating a structure that supports your goals and well-being. It is a habit that evolves with you and adapts to your needs. Whether you are managing academic assignments, planning a vacation, or setting a long term goal, having a system in place ensures that you can approach challenges with confidence and are equipped with the tools to do so!

Building Your Own System

The beauty of organization is that there is no one specific way to do it, or rules and guidelines to follow. My system works best for me because it reflects my lifestyle and the areas in life that I try to prioritize. For someone else, their system might look entirely different, and that is okay! One of the best pieces of advice that I have is to experiment with various kinds of organizational styles and strategies, and find one that resonates with you. It may involve using a digital calendar, a bullet journal, or a really simple to-list written on a sticky note; whatever the method is, make sure that in the end it is helping you succeed, rather than stressing you out!

Having a calendar, planner, to-do list, and journal might seem extremely excessive to some, but for me, it is the anchor that helps keep me steady amidst all of the chaos (especially during midterms and finals). These tools not only help me stay organized, but they also remind me of the importance of planning and preparing ahead in order to achieve success and balance. They also motivate me into continuing to do and pursue the things that I am passionate about. 

All in all, organization is not just a skill, but also a mindset. It’s a way to take control of your time and responsibilities so you can focus on your priorities in life. While the tools we use to help us stay organized may change over time, the rewarding feelings of preparedness and success remain the same. Organization is a skill that grows with you, becoming a lifelong asset that empowers you to thrive in every area of life!

How to Destress in Challenging Situations

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

Hello everyone,

Today’s topic discusses effective ways to destress in challenging situations. Whether you are facing an exam that you may not feel prepared for, or a not-so-fun event that has unfolded and you don’t know what to do next, I have some tips for you!

1. Understand what the problem is.

When faced with a stressful situation, I always ask myself, “why am I feeling this way?” Is it the actual problem at hand, or something more complex? I often follow this up with narrowing down the problem and understanding what exactly I am feeling emotional about. 

2. See if the problem can be solved right away.

Next, it is important to consider whether the issue you are experiencing can be solved within an allotted time. For instance, let’s say you have an exam coming up that you do not feel confident about. Will your feelings of anxiety or sadness subside once you submit this exam, or will they remain even afterward? Will you be pondering about your score once it’s out or even after? These questions are important to know not only for yourself, but also to help you narrow down what might be stressing you out. 

3. If the issue can’t be solved right away, what are some steps you can take in the meantime? 

This next step poses more of a hypothetical question, but if the problem can’t be solved instantly, what will your next steps be? Let’s continue the discussion about having an upcoming stressful exam. Now, let’s pretend that this exam won’t be given to you until a matter of weeks. A few things you could do in the meantime is take time off from academics and focus on eating, resting, and de-stressing. Another thing you could do is reach out to someone to express your concerns. This could include a Well-being Leader, advisors, professors, fellow students, friends, family, or anyone else you feel comfortable opening up to. Finding something proactive to do is something that always helps me calm down during stressful times. 

4. If the problem is solved, understand what is next.

The next step is understanding what needs to be done once the problem is faced head-on. Following the previous example, let’s say you got your exam back and you didn’t do as well as you expected. What could have been the issue (if any) that resulted in your poor performance? Whether it was your studying habits, how long you studied for, or maybe even the specific layout of the exam, multiple factors could have influenced this outcome. Not every problem you face will follow this specific example, however, it’s important to know that what you do after the outcome is just as important as the outcome itself, if not more. 

5. What will you do to prepare for the future? 

As previously mentioned, what you decide to do after experiencing a dilemma is highly important. Let’s use the exam problem one more time. Let’s say you now understand that you didn’t do well on your exam and you have also narrowed down the issues that could be worked on to prevent this from happening in the future. What you can do now is implement these newly learned strategies during future exams while also making sure you aren’t being too hard on yourself. Having high standards for yourself is understandable, but it’s important to prevent these high standards from becoming so negative that they cloud your judgment. In addition, what you can do to improve future outcomes is set reasonable end goals for yourself that help you to be both organized and productive.

One important thing to note is that these methods won’t always work for every scenario/problem given to you, and that is okay. Being able to tweak these strategies around and tailor them to your liking is something that I highly recommend to help yourself overcome stressful situations. 

Til next time,

Sai

Tips for Managing Stress in College

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By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

Being a college student can be hard, as you may be balancing school, work, extracurricular activities, and more. A report found that 1 in 3 college students experience high levels of depression and stress.

The effects of stress can show up in both the short-term and long term. Chronic stress triggers a constant “fight-or-flight” response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol which, over time, strain the body.

Considering the negative effects that stress can have on your physical and mental wellness, it’s important to take care of yourself! It may feel tough to prioritize yourself, but doing so can greatly benefit your overall well-being in the long run.

Here are some tips on how to manage your stress:

1. Eat Well 

Equip your body with the nutrients it needs to fight stress. High-fat, high-sugar foods may give quick energy, but they often lead to crashes that heighten anxiety and fatigue. Similarly, too much caffeine can increase your heart rate, cause jitters, and disrupt sleep, making stress harder to manage. Instead, focus on consuming whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which are rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. 

2. Have an Outlet 

Having an outlet is essential, especially when life feels busiest. Taking breaks may seem impossible, but it’s during these stressful times when you need them most. Finding an enjoyable activity like sports, joining a club, painting, drawing, or gardening helps release tension and refresh your mind.

3. Build a Support System 

Surround yourself with uplifting family, friends, or mentors who listen without judgment, and provide honest perspectives. These connections give you a sense of belonging and resilience, helping you face challenges with greater confidence.

4. Make a Plan/Practice Time Management

Getting organized and planning ahead are key to managing responsibilities and lowering stress. Start by prioritizing weekly tasks to set a clear path, then allocate time for studying, work, social activities, and self-care. Scheduling ensures nothing is missed, helping you stay on track with your goals. Remember, time for yourself is vital to prevent burnout and stay motivated. A well-structured plan provides balance and a sense of control, letting you accomplish more each week while maintaining focus and discipline.

If stress gets too high, please know that UMass Lowell offers resources that are here to serve you. Remember, you are not alone. 

On Campus Resources

Off Campus Resources 

Online Resources 

Managing stress is key to staying healthy in college. Prioritizing self-care, building a support network, and practicing good time management can make a big difference. Remember, UMass Lowell offers on-campus and online resources to support you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out and take steps toward a balanced, resilient college experience.

Citations: 

College students and depression – Mayo Clinic Health System

Stress: How it Affects the Body

Anxiety in college: What we know and how to cope – Harvard Health

Temperature Check

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

Hello everyone! For those of you who haven’t met me yet, my name is Sai Igiede, and I am a Well-being Leader for the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences. My office hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3 pm in HSS 195! Today, I will be discussing a temperature check.

As a fellow Health Sciences major, I understand how our coursework can be hard. Whether it’s for Human Anatomy and Physiology, or Clinical Chemistry, I’m here to remind you that it’s okay to do mental checks. Here are a few things that help me stay well during the semester: 

  1. Taking a 5-minute break from school 
    • This is important, especially when juggling heavy classes like Anatomy. Sometimes, taking a five minute breather and decompressing after studying not only helps you retain more knowledge, but it can also give you a better outlook on what you are studying. 
  2. Making sure I give myself time to have fun
    • Yes, everyone understands that we are here for a degree. However, it’s important to not rob yourself of some fun time. Whether that includes going to the gym or simply hanging out with friends, making sure you are treating yourself is very important for your overall well-being. 
  3. Talking to friends and family 
    • Communication is key! Making sure you have a good support system, especially in college, is very important. Talking to someone about your week (both the good and bad) helps keep your mental health in check whilst also allowing you to catch up with the people around you.
  4. Getting proper rest and sleep
    •  Losing sleep to study isn’t an effective way to study, as it mainly leans to burn out. I always tell myself to never study past 11-11:30pm, and to simply sleep once it gets this late. Sometimes, over studying doesn’t help either, as it can lead to more stress and overall anxiety.

These suggestions may not work for you, and that is okay! Just know that if you are ever struggling mentally and/or physically, you can always reach out to the many different support systems that we have here at UMass Lowell. 

Here are some of the resources we offer on campus:

  • Counseling Services: Call the Wellness Center (978-934-6800) to book your first counseling appointment 
  • Wellness Center: Located on the 3rd floor of University Crossing 
  • Well-being Leaders: Book an appointment via Calendly (walk-ins are also accepted) https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx
  • Mental Health Crisis Hotline: 855-890-2879
  • And many more !!!

Remember, it is never too late to reach out for help!

Til next time,

Sai 

The Importance of Having the Right Study Space

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By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

Have you ever been trying to read an article or write a paper, but you just can’t seem to focus? It’s crucial to consider where you study as much as you consider your mindset while studying. Sometimes, moving away from a noisy dorm to a quiet library or study room can be the deciding factor in whether you turn in that paper or pass that exam.

Personally, I like to separate my spaces. I try to avoid studying on my bed because that’s my downtime zone—the place where I go to sleep. I used to study in my bed because it was comfortable, and, honestly, who doesn’t love their bed? But, I noticed that the more I studied there, the sleepier I became, and the less interested I got in what I was working on. Instead of studying, I could just roll over and take a nap!

A productive and comfortable study environment is essential for effective learning. Try to find a quiet, comfortable spot with minimal distractions to focus on your studies. A well-organized study space can significantly boost concentration and productivity. Here are some tips for creating a productive study environment:

  1. Choose a Quiet Location – Find a place that’s free from noise and interruptions.
  2. Ensure Good Lighting – Proper lighting reduces eye strain and improves focus.
  3. Organize Your Materials – Keep all necessary supplies within reach to avoid unnecessary distractions.
  4. Keep Distractions Away! – Leave your phone far away from your study space to help you maintain focus.
  5. Have Comfortable Seating – Choose a chair and desk that provide proper support to your body and help you maintain good posture.

While following these steps can help make your study space more productive, don’t forget to tailor them to your specific needs. Most importantly, be comfortable! A study space that feels right for you can make all the difference in your learning journey. Happy studying!

Transforming Student Learning with Effective Study Techniques – Education (umn.edu)

11 Ways to Set Up a More Effective Study Space | Lifehacker

Asking For Academic Help

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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.