By: Saryna Vith, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader

It’s another cold morning in Lowell. The sun barely shows, and I’m already awake.  Tired, but moving. Senior year at UML means night classes, high-level courses, and a schedule that never slows down. Work’s flexible, thankfully… not as hard as school, but the weight of both still builds up. Restless days, quiet nights, yet I keep going. I have to.

It’s easy to make friends here, but hard to trust. Everyone’s chasing something, a degree, a dream, an escape…and sometimes, connection feels temporary. Still, I smile, show up, and keep my circle small.Being an only child makes it hit deeper. The silence after class, thinking about home, my parents, the reason I push through every deadline. I’m getting older, thinking more about the future, how to turn all this struggle into stability for them.

The cold here bites, but not as sharp as missing home, so I keep moving.
One late class, one long night, one small win at a time, because every step forward is another promise kept.

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

Introduction 

Fashion has always been more than just clothes, but rather it is how we express ourselves, connect with others, and even mark the different chapters within our lives! But what happens when self expression turns into overconsumption? From fast fashion hauls to overflowing closets, many of us (including myself 🙂 ) have fallen into the easily trappable cycle. The good news? With a little awareness and intention, fashion can shift from something wasteful into something meaningful, sustainable, and even healing!

The Hidden Costs of Fashion

Did you know that 92 million tonnes of textile waste are produced every year? Or that the average U.S. consumer throws away 81.5lbs of clothing annually? Even more concerning, $500 billion is lost each year because of people not wearing the clothes that they have previously purchased and/or failing to recycle clothes. Nearly 10% of ocean microplastics come from textiles, and in 2020 alone, 2.6 million tonnes of returned clothes have ended up within the U.S. landfills. 

Just these few facts alone about fashion show our consumer habits and the fast fashion industry have created a cycle of waste, pollution, and overproduction. While the U.S. is a huge contributor, it is really a global problem that is fueled by corporate companies and our newfound culture of constant consumption. 

My Own Struggle with Overconsumption 

Now I’ll be honest, I was once too a victim of this ongoing cycle. Shopping just to shop, following trends without thinking about the long-lasting impact, and even thrifting in excess until I left the store with bags of clothes that I might not even wear. Just for all of it to go back into my already overflowing closet. 

On top of that, I have always been a bit of a hoarder. From clothes, to papers and school projects, and even little trinkets… I have held onto everything! I was constantly waiting for that “just in case moment,” but spoiler alert! That moment never came. 

Fashion Lessons from Milano

When people think about the term “fast fashion” everyone thinks that the concept is made quickly with cheap and of poor quality materials, but it is simply more than just that. Fast fashion is not about the quality of the garment, but rather how inexpensive clothing is produced by mass market companies in response to the latest trends. The quick response to the latest trends is why it is called fast fashion. This is because once something is a trend, numerous popular companies copy the latest trend and put it out as their own claim, in the matter of a week, day, or even just hours after something went viral!

Everything had started to shift when I studied abroad in Milan, Italy, one of the world’s biggest fashion capitals. Over there I took classes that didn’t just talk about the fashion, fabrics, and trends, but rather about fashion as a cultural industry and its impact on our environment as a society as a whole. 

We explored the meaning of “Made in Italy,” which is a label that represents craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and artisanal skill, while also adapting to the demands of modern industrialization and global markets. During my time studying about fashion, we dug deeper into how fashion balances tradition and innovation by producing garments that are both functional and meaningful. A lot of actual fashion might have a symbolic meaning behind it or is used to be highly functional unlike fast fashion which copies trends and skips the creativity aspect. 

I had also learned about the challenges that industry faces today, for example the fragmented supply chains, labor rights concerns, and the difficulty of sustaining small family owned business. Although in Italy they are working towards other sustainable solutions like more conversation about the art of minimalism or investing in a good article of clothing that is timeless and will last throughout your own lifetime and beyond. The more I learned, the more I realized how much fashion is tied to our identities, culture, and sustainability. It is significant to reshape and rethink the way we follow trends and consume them. 

Embracing Minimalism and Outfit Repeating 

In Italy, I also noticed something extremely refreshing and that is people were not afraid to repeat outfits. Over here in America we have created this negative connotation of how embarrassing it can be to be seen wearing the same shirt in the same week or even month. While it sounds silly, it’s actually very true and even alarming. 

In Milan people were not ashamed to repeat outfits, wearing the same shirt twice in one week, or a favorite pair of pants might show up more often. And the funny thing? No one cared! In Italy, sustainability is very much chic, they love to wear what they want to wear and not what the algorithm tells you to buy next!

And that’s when it started to click for me. Living with just the essentials for four months taught me that consuming less does not mean enjoying life less, it actually means enjoying it more! When you don’t fall into the constant consumerism trap, you save money and get to spend it on actual experiences, the ones that you will remember! 

A Form of Healing: Decluttering 

When I return home, I am faced with my three stuffed closets that are overflowing with clothes, shoes, and other accessories. When coming home it was astonishing to me to see my once mundane closet turn into a neverending clothing alternate universe. This is when I knew something had to change. So I started donating a lot of my clothes. Some to charities, friends, family, family of friends, etc. 

Decluttering wasn’t just about creating space, but it was about sharing joy! I remembered how special it felt when my big sister would pass down her clothes to me as a kid. Now, giving my own clothes to others felt just as meaningful if not more. Decluttering for me became not just an act of sustainability, but helped my mental health and connections with people who I love. 

My Go-To Life Hacks for Sustainable Living 

Here below are some small but powerful habits I use to avoid overconsumption, declutter, and shop mindfully: 

1. Seasonal check ins: If I haven’t worn something in four to five months, and will now set it aside to decide whether or not I want to keep it or donate. 
2. The one-two month rule: If I want to buy something new, I will wait a month or two before buying it. This shows that if I really still want it then it is worth the purchase.
3. Shop with intention: if I am going out to the store by myself, I am going out with a purpose and a plan. Of course I love to window shop with friends, but if I know what I want I like to make lists and try not to veer off from the list.
4. Thrifting smart: I love to thrift, but sometimes I can get carried away. I now know to always check when the best deals are and to limit my shopping to a few times a year and to not make it a regular habit. 
5. Limit shopping trips: back in the day my friends and I would go shopping whenever we were bored and had nothing else to do. I now know the art of window shopping and not needing to buy something everytime I go out. 
6. Saving money for experiences: when you shop less, you actually save more! Save the money for travel, concerts, trips to the movies, etc!

Final Takeaways

Hello! I hope that some of my tips and tricks have helped you see fashion and overconsumption in a better light! And of course I’m not telling you to stop purchasing clothes, objects, or things you find absolutely adorable! Trust me I still will buy a shirt or a bag that I think is super cute! I’m just trying to spread the message that most times gets lost, that fashion isn’t about what we wear, but also the values we carry. 

Overconsumption may be the norm here in America and other parts of the world, but decluttering and sustainability can be acts of resistance, healing, and even creativity. By learning from different experiences and making small active changes in our daily routine we can all start to rewrite the fashion cycles. Hopefully by choosing not to feed into the fast fashion trends and overconsumption we can support the values of small businesses, the planet, and the stories behind the clothes that we wear and save more money in our pockets.

By: Sydney Shea, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-Being Leader 

As I sit down to write this, it’s crazy to think that my undergraduate journey is officially coming to a close. Four years ago, when I began this chapter, I was full of curiosity, excitement, and uncertainty. With graduation around the corner and grad school on the horizon, I can’t help but reflect on how much my peers and I have grown academically, mentally, and emotionally.

This blog has been a safe space for me to document that growth. From sharing tips on managing college stress to exploring minimalism and the power of positive self-talk, each post was a reflection of something I was also learning in real time. 

I wrote about journaling as a tool for stress relief and reflection, and then turned that love into a community impact project to reach fellow students. I talked about thrifting and conscious consumption as a lifestyle choice, and a way to feel empowered in a world that often encourages consumerism. I kept coming back to self-awareness and self-kindness, two things that helped me push through burnout, imposter syndrome, and all the other struggles that come with being a student. 

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue this journey as I start my MPH, and even more excited to stay connected to this community. I’ll be joining the Office of Student Life & Well-being as a graduate fellow, where I’ll get to keep supporting student wellness in a new way.

To those also graduating, know that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Give yourself grace, take it one day at a time, and trust that you’re exactly where you need to be. This next chapter will bring its own challenges, but also new lessons, fresh opportunities, and a deeper purpose. I’m proud of the work I’ve done so far, and more than anything, I’m grateful for the space this program created and the like-minded, kind people it has brought me.

By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

Part 1: Advice to my freshman year self, 4 years ago

Dear Angel,

If there is one piece of advice I could give you, I would divide it into personal and professional lessons.

Personal advice: This is your life, not theirs. You are the author of your own story. If you constantly worry about what others think when you ask a question in class, you are living for them, not yourself. If you fear going to social events alone because of judgment, you will never know what experiences you are missing. Live boldly, embrace discomfort, and step into opportunities without hesitation. If something will not matter in 24 hours, do it,and stop overthinking.

Second, join different clubs. Try cheer, jiu-jitsu, pickleball—explore everything. These opportunities are free and could turn into hobbies or talents that enrich your life. As John F. Kennedy once said, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” Keep yourself engaged and growing because staying busy with purpose is key to fulfillment.

Professional advice: Make connections with professionals early. Take what you learn in class and turn it into tangible content for your resume or personal portfolio. If you lack internship or work experience, leverage your academic projects. Your knowledge and skills have value—use them to bridge the gap and land your dream career.

Part 2: The Top 3 Moments That Defined My College Experience

If I could, I would list 100+ moments that transformed my life in college. But here are three that truly stand out:

Winning the Well-Being Champion and MLK Unsung Hero Awards:
I was honored for something I truly cared about—reproductive health and sexual wellness. Pick something you are passionate about and work towards it. One day, your dedication will be recognized.

Donahue Ducks:
On the first day of college, during an online orientation breakout session, I was placed in a room with all guys and one girl. I messaged her privately to acknowledge how awkward it felt, and that message turned into a four-year-long friendship. Through her, I met seven more incredible people, and we became the Donahue Ducks, named after our dorm. Find your people—they will make college unforgettable.

Becoming SGA Vice President:
I never thought I could reach a leadership role. Growing up, I was bullied and struggled with self-doubt. I never imagined standing in front of crowds or making an impact. But I changed that narrative by attending club meetings alone, speaking up, and sharing my opinions. One step at a time, I grew into leadership, and before I knew it, I was asked to be SGA Vice President. This role gave me the platform to advocate for what I cared about. To those who supported me—SGA advisors, the president, my e-board, and the entire team—thank you.

Part 3: The Bittersweet Reality of Graduating: What No One Tells You About Senior Year

Senior year can be rough. The home stretch is here—you can either finish strong or coast to the end. My advice? Maintain the same momentum. Get straight A’s for yourself, not for anyone else. You can change your entire GPA in one semester—lock in.

Jobs: If you don’t have a full-time job or internship lined up, it’s okay. Make sure your resume and LinkedIn are polished, apply daily, and expand your network.

Before you graduate, here are five things to keep in mind:

1. Embrace the Moment
   College flies by. Find a balance between social life and academics. Make time for friends, but don’t lose sight of your goals.
2. Start Thinking About Life After College
   You don’t need all the answers now, but start planning. What industries interest you? Where do you want to live? Reflect on your next steps.
3. Polish Your Resume and Online Presence
   Have someone proofread your resume. Add achievements. Update LinkedIn. Remember, networking is key.
4. Leverage Your Connections
   Reach out to professors and mentors before leaving. Solidify these relationships, as they can help you in the future.
5. Express Gratitude and Say Farewell
   Take a moment to thank those who made an impact, including friends, professors, even the campus staff. A simple “thank you” goes a long way.

Part 4: A Letter to UMass Lowell

Dear UMass Lowell,

As I prepare to walk across the stage, I reflect on the journey that brought me here. When I first arrived, I was filled with excitement, uncertainty, and hope. Now, as I prepare to say goodbye, I leave with gratitude, confidence, and lifelong memories.

Thank you for being more than just an institution—I found a home here. From classrooms filled with inspiring lessons to late-night study sessions fueled by caffeine and laughter, every moment has shaped me.

To my professors, thank you for your guidance, patience, and passion. You saw potential in me before I saw it in myself. Your lessons went beyond textbooks; you taught me resilience, critical thinking, and the power of continuous learning.

To my friends, thank you for being my support system. The deep conversations, spontaneous adventures, and simple moments turned into lifelong memories. College can be overwhelming, but having people to lean on made all the difference.

To the opportunities that shaped me, thank you. UMass Lowell gave me the space to grow personally and professionally. Leadership roles, internships, research projects, and networking events all pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me discover my strengths.

What will I miss the most? The sense of belonging. There’s something special about walking through campus and seeing familiar faces, feeling the energy of students striving for success, and sharing the pride of being a River Hawk.

As I leave UMass Lowell, I do so with immense gratitude and a heart full of memories. This is not just a goodbye—it’s a see you later. No matter where life takes me, I will always be proud to say that I am a UMass Lowell graduate.

With love and gratitude,
Angel Molekunnel

References:

Valley City State University. (n.d.). 5 things to do before graduation. Valley City State University. https://www.vcsu.edu/5-things-to-do-before-graduation/

By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-being Leader & Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader

About Angel:

Angel is a Business major with a double concentration in Finance and Management Information Systems from Houston, Texas. She says, “I am passionate about being a Well-being Leader because I care about the mental health of the people around me. From personal experience, I have learned that there is always help and I am passionate about changing all the stigmas around mental health and creating a safe space.”

About Fahad:

Fahad Alden is a senior pursuing degrees in Digital Media, English, and Theater Arts. Fahad has confidence in the transformative power of art as a therapeutic force for healing. He says, “As a Well-being Leader, I believe that our weaknesses are what make us. How we harness our weaknesses into creativity is where our power lies. I bring honesty, spirituality and a down-to-earth sense of humor. When I am not busy, you can find me writing or dancing with my friends at rock concerts.”

1. Can you share with us a valuable lesson you learned from your experience at UMass Lowell that you wish you could go back and tell yourself on the first day of school? 

Angel: “Don’t be afraid to go to events alone. Initially I hesitated, but stepping into those rooms alone turned out to be the best decision I ever made. It helped me grow my confidence, connect with incredible people, and step into leadership roles. Sometimes, you just have to trust yourself and take that first step.”

Fahad: “I would tell my freshman year self to accept their journey. My freshman year was a whirlwind of morning classes, running straight to work where I would help kids, committee meetings and study sessions. Finally, I would wind down with my friends at Wendy’s where we’d joke around and just chill. I used to feel ashamed that my college experience wasn’t the “norm,” but now I’ve come to appreciate my journey. Being an underdog and having to work for things made me feel more appreciative when I did finally get them.”  

2. Balancing work and extracurricular activities can be challenging. How do you manage your time effectively, and what motivates you to take on so many responsibilities?

Angel: “Time management is key. I use tools like Google Calendar and Notion to stay organized and set daily goals to remain focused. What keeps me motivated is the desire to make a meaningful impact and support others through my roles and responsibilities.”

Fahad: “I am careful how I spend my time extracurricular-wise. Being selective helps me focus on areas where I can make an impact on others, such as being a Well-being Leader and Disability Peer Coach. I also participate in theatre arts, which fuels my creative side. To stay organized while doing these tasks, I use sticky notes. I recommend always doing what feels authentic to you and not being afraid to say no to the stuff that doesn’t.”

3. Everyone needs some downtime to unwind. What are your favorite activities to relax, and how do you prioritize your health while juggling a busy schedule? 

Angel: “I love pampering myself with beauty and fashion finds. Fitness is also important to me—I enjoy weightlifting, pilates, spin classes, and yoga. When I need to unwind, I journal, walk, catch up on shows, or spend time with friends and family. Prioritizing mental and physical health helps me stay grounded.” 

Fahad: “I believe in the motto “we always regret the things we did not do, not the things we did.” I try to push myself to try new things, whether it’s going axe throwing or visiting a spy museum where I try to escape a maze. These little excursions offer a refreshing break from my daily routine, and engaging in different activities helps me reset.”

4. Is there anything about yourself that you wish more people knew? What is a common misconception about you that you’d like to address?

Angel: “Confidence didn’t come easy. Growing up, I was bullied and insecure, but I refused to let it define me. By manifesting the life I wanted and believing in myself, I’ve grown into someone who is proud of their journey. My past shaped me, but it doesn’t define me—it’s made me stronger and more determined.”

Fahad: “People have this idea of me being super put together. I suppose choosing to do politics kind of creates that image. But truthfully, I am far from that. When I am with my friends, I am known as a jester since I love to joke or pull pranks. I think I have realized I will never be the smartest guy or most popular guy in the room, which I am fine with. I would rather be the best friend you can grab coffee and share a couple laughs with.”

Final Thoughts from Fahad: “This was a collaboration done between me and Angel to share our journeys and perspectives as student leaders. Angel has always been welcoming and warm to everyone around her, and my reasoning behind this collaboration was to highlight her powerful journey and what others can learn. Angel has taught me that there is power in being warm and that it is okay to let your guard down. If you’re seeking support, or simply need a listening ear, please please feel free to meet with me or Angel during our office hours: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx.”

By: Sydney Shea, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-Being Leader

Coming back to school in the fall can be overwhelming for a number of reasons. With new classes and a new routine, it can be hard to get back into the swing of things after a long summer. The food we eat has a much greater impact on our brains than we realize. Eating a nutrient-dense diet is essential for mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being. Let’s dive into three specific nutrients and how they can help improve things like memory, stress, and focus. 

Protein: A diet that is high in protein can help reduce cortisol levels. When cortisol in the body is low, it helps reduce stress signals to the brain. Proteins also contain essential amino acids, which help neurotransmitters synthesize, leading to improved cognitive performance. By supporting these processes, protein boosts memory, concentration, and overall brain function. Adding good sources of protein to your diet helps keep your brain energized and working at its best! You can incorporate protein into your diet in a number of ways: chicken, salmon, nuts, Greek yogurt, cheese, beans, and tofu can all be great sources of protein to fuel your brain. For quick snacks, options like protein smoothies, hummus and veggies, or cheese sticks, can be a convenient way to boost protein intake. 

Tip: If you eat a plant based diet, include tofu into your meals whenever you can! It is one of the few plant-sources of a complete protein (meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids). 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial nutrients that are associated with supporting the hippocampus in your brain. The hippocampus is the part of your brain that creates short term memory, helping you remember whatever you’re studying! Omega-3s also improve communication between brain cells, boosting memory and focus. Fatty fish, including salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are packed with omega-3s. If you’re not into fish, no worries—chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts are other great plant-based options. These foods can be affordable and easy to sprinkle onto things like yogurt, or they can be added into smoothies! If none of these are your cup of tea, plant oils can also be a great source of omega-3s, and using them to cook can give you an extra serving of these essential nutrients. 

B Vitamins: Evidence from nutrition professionals shows that different B-vitamins, specifically B12 and folate (B6 and B9), can help improve memory power and maintain brain health. These vitamins support energy production in the brain, keeping you sharp and focused throughout the day. By reducing levels of a compound called homocysteine, which can damage brain cells, B vitamins help protect memory and concentration, making it easier to stay focused and think clearly. To add a boost of vitamin B to your diet, try consuming more leafy greens, like spinach and kale, which are packed with folate. Eggs, poultry, and fish are also great sources of B6 and B12. In addition, nuts, seeds, and legumes, which are easy to snack on or throw in with any meal, are excellent sources of vitamin B.

By adding more protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins to your meals, you’ll be giving your brain the fuel it needs to perform at its best. Remember, healthy eating isn’t just about your body, it’s about nourishing your mind, too! If you’re interested in improving your diet/eating habits, we have an amazing Registered Dietitian here at UMass Lowell! You can read more about her and her mission, and even book a one on one appointment with her using this link: https://umasslowell.campusdish.com/HealthAndWellness/OnCampusResources 

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

While many people see students as pajama-wearing party-goers, coders in hoodies, cheerleading squads, and cliques, the reality, in many cases, couldn’t be farther from the truth. College is tough, and students’ mental health is declining. In recent years, college campuses have placed a higher focus on student well-being, recognizing the importance of a holistic approach to support student’s academic, emotional, and mental health needs. 

While getting a gold-standard education is one piece of the jigsaw, supporting student well-being is key to ensuring students get the best out of their college experience and academic endeavors, setting them up as best as possible for their futures. UMass Lowell recently created  the Office of Student Life & Well-being and its mission to “advance the Division of Academic and Student Affairs’ holistic concept for student success by infusing health-promoting actions and collaborations into campus culture.” The University’s Chancellor has prioritized student well-being, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to the cause. Chancellor Julie Chen, as of last year, signed the Okanagan charter, officially making UMass Lowell a Health Promoting Campus. According to the Health Promoting Campuses Network Website , the Charter was designed to call on post-secondary schools to embed health into all aspects of campus culture; and to lead health promotion action and collaboration, locally and globally. 

The Dean of Student Affairs and Wellness, Brenda Evans, when asked regarding the reason behind the department’s new department said “many students are in need of different approaches”…While, in an ideal world, there would be a one-size-fits-all approach, in reality, that’s just not possible.”

UMass’s new Office of Student Life and Well-being is focused on a holistic approach to dealing with students’ struggles. The well-being part of the title sounds similar to a different department at UMass Lowell called the Wellness Center. The Director of Student Life & Well-being, Ruben Sança said the Wellness Center  supports one specific issue. He said, “if a student is dealing with an injury or needs a vaccine or access, the wellness center is the place to go.” But when explaining the differences, Sança said student well-being leaders look at more of the whole picture. He said students often see well-being leaders to help with issues such as finance or their location. He said, “even the events hosted are more focused on holistic approaches, like aromatherapy and meditation.”

Sança said that their department uses a concept called the wellness wheel. The wellness wheel is a wellness visual wheel that displays  eight different premises of wellness such as emotional, physical, financial, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, social, and environmental. He said that the wheel helps the office look at the root cause of students’ issues and see more of the whole picture. He said, “When one aspect of your physical or mental health is suffering, this can have a domino effect on other parts of your life.” The office partially emerged as a response to the growing mental health crisis on college campuses, a problem exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many students feeling isolated and experiencing higher rates of anxiety. Dean of Student Affairs and Wellness, Brenda, also thinks social media could have something to do with increasing mental health difficulties among students. 

Brenda spoke about how increased social media usage has made students compare their lives to others, creating unrealistic expectations. “The perception out there that life is great for everyone else, and might not be great for you, is just false.” It’s about creating a healthy environment, said Ruben Sança, that can allow healthy habits “happen more organically.” The office’s development was informed by research and collaboration with other institutions leading the way in student well-being. 

During the early stages of the office’s creation, new staff leadership was trying to identify the root cause of wellness issues commonly experienced by students. 

Brenda and Ruben visited Wake Forest University to learn more about their program’s design. 

The team even undertook research with NASPA by visiting their strategies conference and meeting with the University of Alabama Birmingham to better understand the issues college students are coming up against. This in-depth research helped structure the office’s strategy to this day.

At the outreach aspect of the Office of Student Life & Well-being, Well-being Leaders are students who serve as leaders for well-being initiatives within their respective colleges  Hannah Monbleauo, the Assistant Director of Student Life & Well-being, explains that students are more likely to open up to their peers than faculty or staff. She said these leaders not only increase people voicing the value of taking care of one’s well-being but also open the opportunity for students to have peer support that does not feel formal, so they can get the tailored support they need. 

As Hannah Monbleau, the Assistant Director of Student Life & Well-being shares, “Engineering students enjoyed a competitive cup stacking event to relieve stress, while fine arts & humanities students came together to make vision boards, which was  more of a creative outlet.” She continues, stating a wide range of events are given from each school’s interests  to cater to each school, from health sciences to humanities.

She shared how different majors contrast in their skills and creativity in their  courseworkso some well-being leaders write articles pertaining to stress and course management, while other wellbeing leaders will do creative pieces on wellness documentaries reviews or music therapy. The blog is designed to cater to a wide demographic of students. 

According to the UML Student Life & Well-being Website, “The Well-being Leaders play a crucial role in connecting with their peers, fostering a sense of community, and promoting mental health resources on campus. Student leaders are vital in initiating conversations about well-being and breaking down mental health stigma.”  They also collaborate with various campus departments to organize events and initiatives that support students’ well-being. The aim is that students won’t have to go to a particular space to seek out well-being activities. Instead, mental health and well-being support will be combined into every college life aspect.

The Office of Student Life & Well-being has faced its share of challenges as a new department. 

One of the most significant obstacles has been raising awareness about its services and encouraging students to seek help. Director Sança confirmed that one of their biggest challenges is “for students to initiate conversations.”  The office has tried to navigate their concern through social media campaigns, event collaborations, and partnerships with other campus departments to raise awareness.As Ruben shares in his interview, in addition to prioritizing raising awareness of their services, senior campus leaders involved in the program have recognized the need for additional funding and resources to achieve their goals. As a result, they’re actively pursuing grants and external support to grow and develop the Office of Student Life & Well-being.

UMass Lowell’s well-being initiatives have generated interest from other institutions, leading to the sharing of best practices and the potential for collaboration to further advance the well-being of college students nationwide. As more institutions recognize the importance of prioritizing well-being, UMass Lowell’s Office of Student Life & Well-being is a powerful model for what can be achieved when a university commits to supporting the well-being of its entire community. 

Sança said he hopes for the program to continue to expand with the support of campus leadership and hopes for well-being expansion. He said he hopes well-being leaders will help students improve academic success and a holistic approach. Sança and Assistant Director Monbleau envision their office being larger and their well-being leaders having their own offices. As well they hope for resources to increase so students can have more hours and work with students more one-one.Sança said his ultimate dream is to have well-being leaders for every concentration and minor. He said that would be a goal mark to ensure the program has reached its goal. 

As more people are recognizing the importance of well-being, UMass Lowell’sOffice Student & Well-being serves as a great blueprint model for what a university can achieve if a commitment is made to support the well-being of its entire community. 

The dedication of the office’s team, along with the support of campus leadership, ensures that well-being remains a top priority for the institution, fostering a campus culture that values the holistic success of its community members.

With continued efforts the office can help improve academic success, better overall student well-being, and create a reputation for taking a holistic approach to education that can help colleges nationwide attract more students. 

https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/

http://ushpcn.org/

https://www.naspa.org/