Category Archives: Occupational Health

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

Finding purpose and fulfillment in your work. Engaging in work that is meaningful, enjoyable, and aligns with personal values.

The Importance of Staying Organized

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

Although it is commonly mentioned as the secret to success, the concept of organization is more important 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 Arts Became a Beacon of Hope for Me

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

My development of love for the arts was not linear. My parents left Iraq during the war in 2008 and moved to the United States. While most children’s earliest memory likely involves playing or socializing, mine is of my parents telling me, at three years old, that we had to move. 

Moving to the United States brought safety, but also challenges. I was not only a member of a minority group, but I also had an accent, looked different, and struggled academically, which made me develop low self-esteem and isolate myself. These circumstances may seem cruel, but I have always lived by the quote, “Rejection is redirection.” My differences allowed me to become more resilient and hardworking. Whether it was school, socializing, or learning English, none of which came easily, I learned to adapt and overcome these challenges. 

Being an outsider gave me a different lens through which to see the world, strengthening my dream ability. Growing up, I often put on shows with my friends and recreated plays or MTV music performances. My father worked three jobs to support us in our transition, even cycling miles to work, so my parents were too busy trying to survive to sign me up for extracurricular activities or theater courses.  

When starting college, I took Acting 1 as a fun elective, but I soon realized how much I loved it. I treasured the opportunity to take a script and create a character using tone, pace, and body language to tell a story. My favorite moment from Acting I was when my class read the play Cherry Orchard and had to recreate a scene with a modern interpretation without changing the dialogue. I played the character of Tuzenbach as if he were the president of a fraternity. Playing a character from a different perspective transformed me, so I incorporated a cheesy smile and put on a “Cali frat boy” voice.  

I subsequently enrolled in a directing workshop course. This challenging class required students to recruit actors and direct scenes independently. I had to perform “echo listens,” which involved showing instead of saying, showcasing the power of using one’s tone and physicality as an actor. Through trial and error, I also learned the importance of carefully selecting actors. 

Directing is not teaching, as it is within the actor to find answers, and as a director, you are more of a compass than a map. Learning to be a compass for other actors encouraged me to use my fellowship scholarship to create an assistant director position for UML’s Spring 2024 play, Mechonaly, by Sarah Ruhl. 

After realizing that acting and directing were my passions, I expanded my horizons by enrolling in play production and set design classes. Although being a scenic artist was not an aspiration of mine, these courses enhanced my skillset as a theater artist. The assignments were open-ended, which improved my critical thinking skills. For our set design finals, we had to create a scene using only the materials that were around us, such as book covers, toothpicks, and straws, to construct walls and furniture. This taught me that theater artists must be adaptable in working with available materials, trusting their intuition, and not relying on others to do their work. As with most lessons, I had to learn the hard way how important it is to pay close attention to small details, such as measuring the window to ensure its dimensions matched those of the theater wall.

In one of my other classes, World Theatre, we learned that the style of theater varies among different countries. I may be biased, but I loved analyzing Middle Eastern theater play. As part of this class, I conducted a presentation in which I talked about the use of wit and humor throughout the history of Middle Eastern theater. When I began taking theater classes, I felt smart for the first time. In other fields of study, there seemed to be right and wrong answers, but in theater, there was never a single correct answer; instead, there were endless possibilities for answering a question.

Throughout school, I worked full time as a childcare group leader to help pay for my classes. While working there, I witnessed kids having outbursts and feeling alone, the same way I did when I was a kid. So, I researched fun theater games and applied what I was learning in college to my approach to caring for the kids. The kids were jovial and began connecting with one another soon after, demonstrating how I had created new outlets for them to express themselves. Without my theater course experience, I would not have been able to make this impact. This job experience further qualified me for the opportunity to work as a teacher at the Arlington Center for the Arts, where I taught drama and creative movement.

The experiences I have gained throughout college made me who I am now. It’s been a wild ride full of many experiences, each one adding something special to the picture of my life. From when I was young and beginning my journey with the arts, to taking on various leadership roles as I got older, every moment helped me grow and understand the world better. As I got deeper into the arts, I wanted to take on new challenges.  

Moving forward, I cannot wait for not only what the world has in store for me, but also the arts.

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

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

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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.   

Reflection on My “Wellness in Bloom” Comic Guide

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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.

Transformation: From Newcomer to Campus Leader

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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.

The Value of Reflection

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By: Julia Yeadon, College of Fine Arts Humanities and Social Sciences Well-being Leader

As I write my final blog post in my beloved position as a Well-being Leader, I have begun to think of all of the opportunities and experiences that have led me to this point. In just one month, I will complete my chapter as a student and Well-being Leader at UMass Lowell. Thinking of leaving this school and this position brings me great sadness, however, I have chosen to shift my focus toward what I am fortunate enough to bring with me into my next chapter. 

I have seen so much growth in myself throughout this past year, and I owe most of this to my position as a Well-being Leader. Through this position, my passion for helping others has grown immensely. I am in awe of the small effort it takes to make a big difference in those around us. In just a 30-minute meeting during my office hours, I held the power to positively change someone’s life. The first student I ever met with in my office hours came back to tell me how much of a difference my suggestions had made in her life. I was filled with such happiness and contentment. From then, I knew that wherever life leads me, I want to continue to make this kind of an impact. 

I have always been the kind of person that has the next five years of my life meticulously planned out. This year, I learned to live in the moment and allow life’s opportunities to lead me onto my next journey. I started this school year beginning my bachelor’s-to-master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis. However, I end this school year preparing to attend Bridgewater State University to earn my M.Ed. in School Counseling – a career that perfectly aligns with the values of being a Well-being Leader. 

To my fellow seniors, I encourage you to reflect. Reflect on the hardships you have endured during your time in college, and how you have strived to overcome such challenges. Reflect on what you have learned, both inside and outside of the classroom. Reflect on the people you have met, who have contributed to your personal and academic growth over the past four years. Finally, reflect on your own growth. Take pride in the diligence and effort you have committed during your time at UMass Lowell that has led you to the person you are today.

Many of you may think – what now? Whether you are continuing your education, starting a new job, or taking some time off before engaging in your next journey, take a moment to celebrate this accomplishment. As of 2022, only 37.7% of individuals ages 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Be proud that you are moments away from being part of this small percentage.

I am grateful beyond words for the impact the Well-being Leader program has had on my life. To my fellow Well-being Leaders, thank you for being the perfect role models by demonstrating the power we hold to make a difference in the lives of others. To Hannah, thank you for being the most inspiring mentor and encouraging me to follow my dreams. Finally, to the students I have met throughout this year during my office hours, I wish you the best of luck in all of your future endeavors and hope that my efforts to help you have led to a ripple effect. Imagine how beautiful this world could be if we all act on this same passion of helping others.

References:

https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023/educational-attainment-data.html

About to graduate? Tackle the job search.

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

People in this generation have shown that they do not want a small life or a small job. They want to work in a place where they can experience a sense of purpose. To land a job like that, to be noticed among the many, some special spark in you must burn brightly. Every single person out there has the capability of obtaining such a spark. But for that, there’s a critical ingredient that it needs to grow: space. 

Space is the pathway to discovering a job you’re passionate about. Too often, job seekers get caught up in the anxiety of the hunt and forget to nurture their spark. They forget to take a minute to think, or to breathe, reflect, and recover from the stress of finding meaningful work. Without space, job searching becomes overwhelming and this may drive someone to choose a role they don’t really want or burn out before even entering the interview process. 

If you’re currently searching for a job and feeling stressed, the following strategies may help you take the space you need to make smarter decisions about your future:

  1. Bring your best self.

Rather than focusing on specific outcomes, you should visualize yourself bringing your best self to high-stake situations, such as job interviews or the first day of work. This practice can alleviate stress and restore a sense of calm and clarity. 

  1. Address worries appropriately.

To safeguard your well-being, try to separate emotions from worries. While it’s important to acknowledge and experience emotions fully, worries should be contained and addressed at specific times each day in a healthy way, such as journaling. This prevents rumination and maintains focus. 

  1. Give yourself a minute to think.

Instead of impulsively accepting any job offer out of financial pressure, you should take time to consider whether a role aligns with your long-term goals and values. Is it something you really want? Try to visualize yourself in the position. This involves quiet reflection and sitting with decisions before acting. 

Transitioning from school into the workplace isn’t easy. Be thoughtful, don’t panic, and back up your big dreams with action.  And remember, your first job does not define your entire future! Dream jobs often become more accessible once you have some experience, and as you progress in your career, the nature of your dream job might change. Relieve some of the pressure surrounding graduation knowing that you don’t have to be doing the perfect thing right away. 

Take advantage of the resources available to you through UMass Lowell:

  • The Career Center: meet with an advisor for assistance with resume building, job searching (including at career fairs), filling out applications, and developing interviewing skills
  • Well-being leaders: schedule a meeting with a well-being leader to connect you with on-campus resources and help you discover opportunities in your chosen field 
  • Handshake: join this online platform to connect with UML alumni and recruiting employers

Finally, remember, there’s something you can learn from every job, and every experience you have will benefit you as a professional. So, know that you’ve got this. You’re armed with your degree, and you should be proud of all you’ve accomplished so far. Now, breathe in, and get ready to take your next big step. 

References: 

Finding a Job is Stressful. Here’s How to Get Through it. (hbr.org) 

About to Graduate? Don’t Freak Out About Your Career, Follow These Steps Instead (forbes.com)  

The “Major” Crisis of College Students

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By: Julia Yeadon, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

During my second semester of freshman year, I changed my major from Education to Psychology. For many years, I wanted to be an elementary school teacher, however I reached a point where I did not feel as passionately about this occupation anymore. While it was overwhelming to reconstruct my life plans, I felt at ease when I began to find a new and more exciting passion for helping others in the field of psychology. In fact, one study found that one out of every three college students enrolled in a Bachelor’s program changed their major within the first three years of enrollment (https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2018/2018434.pdf). You are not alone!

A question we have heard a million times (that often induces a state of panic) is “What do you want to be when you grow up?” As a teenager, aspiring college students are prompted with this question and are expected to know the answer. With little knowledge of what a certain career entails, we must make the daunting decision of choosing a career path. Thus, many of us enter college with a major that we think might be a good fit for us based on general interests and financial considerations.

What many high school guidance counselors and other adults fail to explain to us as high school students who are unsure of which career path to choose is that going into college as “undecided” is a perfectly acceptable option. Doing so allows us to utilize our first year of college to take a variety of elective courses to fulfill general education requirements. Taking these courses will give the insight needed to determine whether or not you are interested in a particular field and discover new fields that may be of interest to you. In addition, this allows you time to utilize other on-campus resources to aid in deciding on a major.

One of UMass Lowell’s greatest resources on campus is the Career and Co-op Center. This resource provides you with the opportunity to meet with an advisor through the center for help with exploring different career options. In addition, the Career and Co-op Center’s website (https://career.uml.edu/) allows you to utilize the “Explore Career Options” tab by choosing an area of interest to search for job trends, as well as job and internship opportunities. This provides you with a variety of career paths to align with your particular interests. 

Furthermore, the Career and Co-op Center includes a “Learn How To Explore Your Interests” tab that lists relevant featured articles and a variety of resources. Resources include a self-assessment to dive into your values and personality to match you with potential majors and careers, called “Focus 2”(https://www.focus2career.com/Portal/

Login), and a website that helps you explore potential careers for each major (https://whatcanidowiththismajor.com/). 

UMass Lowell’s career advising team has recently formed a one-credit course designed to help students explore potential career paths and begin planning their next steps. Two sections of this course will be offered next semester (Spring 2024). You can learn more and register for the course, UMLO.1500 Career Exploration & Planning, via the UML Now website (www.uml.edu/NOW). A “Job and Internship Search” class is also offered in the Spring semester to aid in gaining application and interviewing skills, as well as learning how to find the right job or internship for you. This class can also be found on the UML Now website.

Some students may find themselves questioning whether the major they picked is well-suited to their values and aspirations. One thing I have learned throughout college is that being in the field can be significantly different than learning about aspects of the field in a classroom. It is imperative to engage in Summer internships, the Co-op program, or other fieldwork experiences that are offered through the Career and Co-op Center. These opportunities allow you to directly experience what it is like in the field to better interpret whether or not it is the right career for you. Additionally, these experiences can boost your resume and help develop connections with other individuals in the profession.

Some other tips that I would recommend to fellow students is to interview individuals who are employed with the career, or careers, that you are most interested in. Ask questions, such as what their day-to-day looks like, challenges they experience, which parts of the job they enjoy least and most, and if they have experienced burnout in their position. Better yet, if possible, shadowing someone in the profession can help you directly see the day-to-day experiences of an individual in your career of interest.

Many college students who go into college with a major that they originally had interest in realize that the career path is just not for them. While it can be frightening to start back at square one in finding the perfect major for you, keep in mind that many of the classes you take in the first two years of undergraduate school can count toward general education requirements. College is a time where you develop as a person and learn more about yourself and the things you feel passionate about. Therefore, it is normal for you to discover new interests and for old interests to fade out.

While I would recommend any students struggling with finding their perfect major to check out the Career and Co-Op Center on campus, it is also important to keep in mind that your Well-Being Leaders are here for you, too. Occupational health is one of our eight dimensions of wellness, which we are determined to help you find a career that provides you with happiness and fulfillment. We are happy to share our experiences and advice regarding choosing a major or career path. To book an appointment with a Well-being Leader in your college, please visit https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx.

Occupational Wellness

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

Read about nurturing occupational wellness for student health & well-being in this short blog post:

Realistic Goals:

It’s important for students to set realistic short-term and long-term career goals. These goals can provide motivation and a sense of achievement when reached, enhancing overall wellness.

Self-Care: 

Just as with physical health, taking breaks, practicing relaxation techniques, and ensuring proper sleep is vital for occupational wellness. Overworking and neglecting self-care can lead to burnout and negatively impact one’s health. 

Work-Life Balance:

Students should strive for a healthy work-life balance, allocating time for hobbies, relationships, and leisure activities. Maintaining this balance is essential for avoiding stress and burnout.

In Conclusion

Occupational wellness is not just about securing a job or earning a paycheck. It’s about finding meaning and fulfillment in one’s work, which directly contributes to a student’s overall health and well-being.

Visit me at my office hours to discuss this further: Southwick Hall-250 (Deans’ Office)

  • Monday 2pm-3pm
  • Wednesday 2pm-3pm
  • Thursday 9am-11am

Citation:

Hannes Zacher and Antje Schmitt. ” Work Characteristics and Occupational Well-Being: The Role of Age.” Natural library of Medicine, 2016 

Zhang F. et al. ” Editorial: Occupational health psychology: From burnout to well-being at work” Frontiers in Psychology, 14 November 2022

Sharon Clarke. ” Journal of Occupational Health Psychology.” American psychological Association, 1998