I didn’t exactly know what to expect when I was asked to complete this assignment, however I am so happy we had this opportunity as I received the reassurance I never knew I needed. College is a big transition; being away from home, family, and friends that you are comfortable with is a drastic change from the way life once was. However, I was lucky enough to discover that my close peers and friends have adjusted to this new way of life and have taken the time to properly care for themselves. 

I asked the chosen participants two different questions, which focused specifically on mental health and well being. I first asked them if they felt as though they had the proper resources available to them on campus if they were to be experiencing mental health issues, and if they would feel comfortable utilizing these resources. One student named Maddie noted, “Yes. I would feel comfortable going to my academic adviser, the counseling services in Perkins, and professors I have close relationships with.” The second student named Ellie explained, “I would feel comfortable going to the counseling center if I had a big problem, or even just talking things out with my parents via phone call is nice too.” Another student named Brooke mentioned that she put all of the numbers on the posters in her dorm in her phone if she were ever in a situation where she needed to contact someone. I was pleasantly surprised by these responses, as I didn’t realize how much students valued the counseling services provided to us, and how comfortable they would feel to address the faculty if they ever had a personal issue. In my high school, the teachers were extremely supportive of their students and made it clear that they were available for academic needs as well as social and emotional needs for their students. I am lucky and proud to say that my college professors have made this clear as well and my peers feel the same way. 

In addition, the other question I posed to my interviewees was about the ways in which they take time to care for themselves. A student named Sarah explained,  “I work out and go to the gym to relieve my stress. I also like to go to Russell late night with my friends as a treat to myself to get out and relax and take a break from work.  I also like to listen to soft piano music while I do work, but also if I am laying in my bed and doing nothing. I like how it does not have words and how it has nice, soothing sounds.” Ellie, one of the students I mentioned before, also expressed how she enjoys Russell late night as a way to take a break from work and be social with her friends. First of all, I have never tried listening to soft piano music. That seemed quite boring to me, however, I recently listened to it and it actually is quite soothing. In addition, I was surprised by the popularity of Russell late night, as I originally looked at eating late at night as unhealthy. However, I now see how rewarding and happy it makes people feel to take a break from their work, relieve stress and go to the dining hall to socialize with their friends. 

In conclusion, I am pleased with the results I received about how my friends are doing as they are adjusting to campus. Taking time for yourself and being aware of the resources available to you is vital, and my peers seem to have accomplished both of these things! Whether it is soft piano music, Russell late night, or working out, everyone should take a second out of each and every day for themselves to rejuvenate!