With Dr. Nicole Ruzek
Before the Spring Semester intensifies let’s explore how we can be better equipped to manage stress while adjusting to “the new normal” world we live in today. 2020 was quite a stressful year - abruptly switching from in-person to online classes, the fear of COVID-19 and its associated losses, acts of social injustice and racial tensions erupting over the summer, and a divisive election leading to violence and social unrest. We've stayed isolated instead of being together on Grounds, missed attending UVA sporting events, been isolated from old friends and had difficulty meeting new ones. We all lost opportunities or delayed decisions. Everyone has been affected in some way and we feel that every student could benefit from hearing information that might help not only themselves in coping with the new semester but also their fellow Hoos. This talk will both provide a space for acknowledging that the struggle of living and learning during these times is real and help you consider ways to stay motivated, cultivate connection and find joy in even the most trying of times.