Brain Fuel

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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 

Breaking Away From Social Media

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By: Faith Kollie, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-Being Leader

As I navigate across campus, I see that everyone is on their phones, whether they are listening to or watching something. Over the last few years, the use of social media has increased dramatically, taking time away from real-world tasks (like studying for an exam) and face-to-face interactions.

Below, I have listed some ways to help you reset and refresh your time on social media. I have given four questions you can consider asking yourself to help you reflect on each section.

1) Set your Priorities: 

Questions: Are there things I’m supposed to be doing that social media is distracting me from? When are these tasks due? What is the urgency of completing these tasks? What are the potential consequences of not completing them?

Solutions: Try to dedicate time to completing your tasks early so that you’re not overwhelmed when due dates roll in. If procrastination is a challenge for you, try breaking large tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks.

2) Participate in Enriching Activities: 

Questions: What activities make me feel relaxed, happy, and fulfilled? Have I tried something new recently? Are there any skills I should develop or improve on? Have I spent time outdoors recently?

Solutions: Replace your time on social media with activities that cleanse your mind, soul, and body. This could include exercising, engaging in spiritual practices, journaling, or exploring new hobbies.              

3) Socialize:

Questions: What are some ways I can communicate with others without using social media? How will people reach me if I’m off social media? How can I stay aware of new trends? How can I connect with friends or family in a meaningful way?

Solutions: Let your friends, family, or colleagues know that you’re taking a break from social media so they can find alternative ways to communicate with you. Try to meet up with these people in person to spend quality time together, which may even help strengthen your relationships. Make plans for activities or trips that you have been wanting to go on with the people in your life—and don’t just make plans, follow through with them!

Taking a break from social media isn’t just beneficial for your well-being—it also helps you to be more productive. It is important to take a cleanse from social media to refresh and recharge yourself. As one of your Well-being Leaders, I am here to help you disconnect and replenish your time from social media by helping you find alternative ways to manage your time. Schedule an appointment with me here!: https://calendly.com/faithkollie01/faith-s-wellbeing-meeting?month=2024-09

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

How to Eat Well in Fox Dining Hall: A UMass Lowell Student’s Guide

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

At UMass Lowell, dining at Fox Dining Commons is a daily experience for many students, but navigating it can sometimes feel overwhelming with all the options available. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, manage dietary restrictions, or simply figure out what to eat, Fox Dining Hall has something for everyone—if you know where to look.

Fox Dining Commons, located on the 2nd floor of Fox Hall, is a state-of-the-art, all-you-care-to-eat location that offers a variety of stations with meals made fresh from scratch. The dining hall is open throughout the day, with designated times for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch:

Fox Dining Commons Hours:

  • Breakfast: Mon – Fri, 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Brunch: Sat – Sun, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Lunch: Mon – Fri, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Dinner: Mon – Thu, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Fri – Sun, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your meals at Fox Dining Commons, with insights from Melissa Quirk, RD, UMass Lowell’s Registered Dietitian.

1. Start with the Stations

Fox Dining Commons offers a wide range of options every day, including:

  • Omelet Station for custom-made omelets in the mornings.
  • Sizzle Station for hot meals including scrambled eggs, home fries, and pancakes.
  • Smoothie Station offering refreshing, healthy drinks during breakfast time.
  • Deli and Toast Station for customizable breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and fruit cups.

It’s easy to find a nutritious and filling meal here, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a lighter option, like a fruit cup or yogurt parfait.

2. Build a Balanced Meal

Balancing your meals is essential to staying healthy, especially in an all-you-care-to-eat setting. Start with vegetables or salad from the salad bar, add lean proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, and finish with whole grains like brown rice or whole wheat toast. Don’t forget about adding some healthy fats, like olive oil from the salad bar, or nuts and seeds. A good way to balance your plate is by filling half with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with whole grains. You’ll be giving your body the nutrients it needs without overeating.

3. Mind Your Dietary Restrictions

Fox Dining Commons is equipped to handle a variety of dietary needs. They offer vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options, as well as special stations like True Balance, which provides allergy-friendly meals. Gluten-free products are also available, along with a designated toaster and microwave to prevent cross-contamination.

Melissa is here to help students navigate their dietary needs safely and healthily. She works closely with UML Dining to ensure that all students can enjoy their meals without worry. 

4. Explore the Healthier Options

Fox Dining offers plenty of healthier alternatives to their more indulgent options. For example, instead of reaching for fried foods, try the True Balance or Homestyle station, or opt for the fresh fruit and smoothie station.

5. Don’t Forget Hydration

Fox Dining offers a range of drinks, but try sticking to regular water, unsweetened iced tea, or water infused with lemon or cucumber. Sugary drinks like sodas and sweet teas can add unnecessary calories to your meal, so keeping it simple with water can help maintain your energy throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps you focus better in class and feel more energized throughout the day.

6. Manage Sick Days with Sick Meals

If you’re too sick to make it to the dining hall, Fox Dining Commons offers Sick Meals that you or a friend can pick up. These meals follow the BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) diet, perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. To request a sick meal, just email the dining hall dining@uml.edu, with your name, student ID number, residence hall, and the time you want your meal picked up. Make sure to provide at least 3 hours’ prior notice.

7. Melissa Quirk, RD: Your Nutrition Resource

If you ever have questions about your eating habits, managing dietary restrictions, or need guidance on how to eat better, don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa Quirk, RD. Melissa is passionate about helping students make realistic and achievable nutrition goals. She’s especially helpful for students with food allergies, those looking to eat for athletic performance, or those trying to stay on track with a healthy diet during a busy semester.

You can find Melissa at Health Services in University Crossing every Monday and Wednesday. Book an appointment with her here: https://melissaquirkrd.youcanbook.me/?jumpDate=2024-12-01&i=itt_73e6c968-5080-466c-93f2-393a4813cac8

Final Thoughts

Fox Dining Hall has so much to offer, and with the right approach, it’s easy to maintain a balanced, healthy diet. With some planning, exploration, and guidance from Melissa Quirk, RD, you can make the most of your dining experience at UMass Lowell while fueling your body for success.

Whether you’re in need of a quick bite, a hearty meal, or something to accommodate your dietary needs, Fox Dining Commons has it covered. Happy eating!

Go River Hawks!

How to Stand Up For Yourself

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

We learn a lot in school—how to do math, how to read, and how to write in cursive (which, sorry, Ms. Curro, I still can’t do). But one thing we don’t learn is how to stand up for ourselves.

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot beyond how to give the perfect handshake or how most meetings could’ve been emails. The biggest lesson I’ve learned as an adult? The importance of standing up for yourself.

I could tell you about all the lessons I had to learn the hard way, but here’s the most important one: the importance of standing up for yourself because no one else is going to. When we are young, we are often told not to be bystanders and to stand up for others. I’ve noticed, however, that as we get older, this message gets lost in translation, leaving it up to us to stand up for ourselves. 

The first step to learning how to stand up for yourself is to start by identifying your needs and what you won’t tolerate. Knowing your boundaries helps you stay firm in what you will and what you won’t accept from others. For example, I can handle some dark humor, but putting down my interests or throwing me under the bus for something that wasn’t my fault? That’s where I draw the line. I have the right to decide what I tolerate, and by knowing my boundaries, it becomes easier to enforce them. 

It is important to not let others decide your boundaries for you. I had someone in my life that bullied me for years on end, and when others told me to brush it off, it only made things worse, as that person felt entitled to continue their behavior. It also led me to engage in this negative behavior myself, which was not healthy for me. It is important to prevent yourself from reaching a point where you are adding gas to the fire. 

Before you confront the issue, take time for yourself to reflect and prepare what you will say. I’ve never been someone who can talk slowly or calmly when angry—it’s just not in my nature. I’m Iraqi, so I have that fire in me for sure; we’re passionate people… we speak with our hands, we hug, we kiss, and most importantly, we are passionate about injustice. 

Knowing this about me, I try to take a day for myself before I decide to work a situation out with someone. So, I take a moment, calm down, and then explain the situation to them in a reasonable tone. Whether the topic is crude jokes or money owed, expressing why something was hurtful is the most important part. Focusing on “I” statements reassures the person I am speaking to that I am not attacking them, but rather trying to open the dialogue. 

When preparing a message, remember to always be honest. Being real with yourself and others can lighten the load. For example, someone once snapped at me because they were having a bad day. They apologized, and I thanked them for that, but I didn’t say it was okay. It’s never okay to take your frustration out on someone else, and I did not want to enable this behavior by deeming it okay. Transparency is a value I hold close to me, so I try to practice it in my everyday life. 

Don’t say something is fine if it’s not and then explode later. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Easy.

If this article spoke to you, take some time to read through the rest of our blog posts – you might discover another story that speaks to you.

Image: https://www.yourtango.com/

Growing Pains

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

Today, I am going to discuss the topic of growing pains. All people, regardless of age, height, or social status, can relate to this universal feeling in different ways. Growing pains are more than just physical discomfort; they stand for the difficulties that arise during any kind of growth, whether it be professional, emotional, or personal.

What are Growing Pains? 

According to Merriam Webster, America’s most trusted dictionary, growing pains can be defined as the following: 

  1. Pains in the legs of growing children that have no demonstrable relation to growth.
  2. The stresses and strains of attending a new project or development.

Physical Growing Pains

Beyond the two definitions listed above, there are other ways in which growing pains can occur. As children’s bodies grow and develop quickly, many of them experience leg aches. These temporary pains usually affect the thighs, calves, or behind the knees. They come and go frequently without any pattern, and can sometimes occur after intense exercise (running, jumping, or climbing), which can put extra strain on growing muscles. These pains, which usually start in the late afternoon or evening, can range from a slight ache, to a sharp, stabbing pain. 

While these aches are typically not dangerous, they serve as a reminder that growth has its own set of difficulties, even for young children. Though the exact cause of physical growing pains remains unclear, some theories point to the normal flexing and stretching of bones, ligaments, and muscles during a child’s growth.

Emotional and Mental Growing Pains

It can be frightening to learn new things about ourselves, whether they are positive or negative. The person we thought we once knew, all of a sudden begins to grow, both physically and mentally. In order to accommodate these changes, we often need to make some mental and emotional adjustments. These uncomfortable times can also mark important milestones, or bring about new and unfamiliar feelings.

Emotional and mental growing pains can be characterized by the following:

  • Intense emotions, such as extreme fear, worry, sadness, or anger
  • Decreased energy or motivation
  • Avoiding friends and family
  • Withdrawing from favorite activities
  • Frequent mood swings

Transition Phases in Life 

As we grow up and transition through life’s phases, it is important to prioritize self-care and to be kind to ourselves. Many of us experience moments in life when we say “yes” to too many things, or make more commitments than we can handle. Life gets busy, and it is common to get wrapped up in everything and forget to take care of yourself. However, just like we prioritize booking a doctor or dentist appointment, we need to keep in mind the significance of prioritizing our mental health.

Coping Strategies 

Whether you are dealing with physical growing pains, or emotional/mental growing pains, there are numerous solutions to help you cope with your struggles. While physical growing pains often have more concrete solutions compared to emotional growing pains, here are some strategies that can help you with both: 

  • Stretching! – Stretching helps soothe your body and your muscles. You should make sure to stretch before and after playing a sport or partaking in any physical activity. If you don’t want to engage in any rigorous activities, but still want to get active, yoga is a great, relaxing option. Not only does it help with your physical well-being, but it can also benefit your emotional and mental health.
  • Use Heat! – Whether you are using a heating pad, taking a warm shower/bath, or drinking something warm, heat can make your body feel more relaxed and even help alleviate pain. So, if you are feeling sore or upset, try stepping into a warm shower or making your favorite tea with honey!
  • Write Down your Feelings! – As humans, we have the ability to feel so many different emotions at once, which can sometimes get overwhelming. Writing down what we do, how we feel, and what can help is an incredible coping strategy. So, grab a journal, find a pen, and let out all of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions!
  • Be Creative! – We spend so much time and energy on school, work, chores, and more, so it’s important to free up time to practice things that get our creativity flowing! When we dedicate time to the things we like to do, it can make us happier in life! Some examples could include coloring, crocheting, knitting, scrapbooking, building, drawing, or painting.
  • Prioritize Self Care! – We are constantly on the move, going from one task to another. Every now and then, however, it is important to put ourselves first. Whether it’s dedicating an hour of the day to relaxing and reading a book, or turning off all electronic devices and having a rest day, aim to do one thing each day that nurtures your well-being. Some more examples could include taking a long shower, doing skincare, meditating, taking a long walk, petting a dog, watching a comfort show—the list goes on!

My office hours are 10am-noon on Mondays and Wednesdays! These well-being appointments can help you with any of the dimensions of wellness (physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, financial, occupational and environmental). Well-Being Leaders can help students who are struggling with their growth and transitions through life! You can book an appointment with me here: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx

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.

Social Wellness: Building Meaningful Connections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I’m available at Southwick Hall-250B (Deans’ Office) every Monday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM to offer a safe space for you to express your challenges.

Citations:

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

Embracing Your Inner Superhero

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Half-Full Glass of Life

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

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

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

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

Your friend,

Shaili

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

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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.