Dear UIS Students and Employees:
UIS is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for its students and employees, in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Our Drug Prevention Policy and Program was prepared in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.
You will encounter students who are experiencing difficulties and/or may need extra support. There are several reasons why students may be struggling, including physical or mental health issues, academic pressures, increased stress, financial concerns, societal issues, and difficulty with interpersonal relationships. You have a critical role in supporting our students.
Remember U.I.S.
As we approach mid-semester, the many responsibilities that our students are balancing may begin to feel overwhelming for them. They may be experiencing the stress of mid-term exams, missing loved ones, worry about world events, or financial stress. Keeping our students healthy is one way to limit the impact of these often-unavoidable life challenges. Some basic strategies for students include good sleep, hygiene, daily movement, and proper nutrition.
As the weather gets colder and we engage in more indoor activities, our risk of illness increases, including cold, flu, RVS, COVID-19, and many other illnesses. One of the best strategies is always prevention. Please consider getting an updated vaccine to help keep yourself and others safe.
A ‘break’ can have several meanings, but the common themes are to have fun, relax, and be safe. Break time may take the form of a trip south to relax by the ocean during the day and to further unwind in the evening at restaurants/clubs. However, even though most of us are not taking trips South for the week, we are still entitled to relax.
How this is possible without physically getting away from everything?
Have you ever had family, friends or teachers say unpleasant things to you? Have you failed at something you have tried to accomplish, or felt as if you canít do anything right? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, please know that you are not alone. Everyone, at some point in his/her life, has encountered one or more of these situations. When a situation like this occurs, it may influence the development of your self-esteem. Self-esteem can be defined as the way we feel about and value ourselves.
It is the beginning of a new semester and a new Year. Many of us may have made New Year’s resolutions or promises to ourselves about trying things differently this year.
Many of you have started settling into the routine of classes.It is the time of the semester that first tests or papers are due.This is in addition to everything else that consumes your time such as clubs, organizations, work, relationships and family.It is a stressful time for many valid reasons.
So, how are you doing with this stressful time?It is common for many of us to feel “blue, sad or overwhelmed” for a short period of time, but I am concerned that you may be feeling more than just feeling blue, sad or overwhelmed!
Have you heard the statement, “College…the best years of your life?” I agree. College can be fun and exciting. It is a time for learning, meeting new people, being introduced to new ideas and philosophies, participating in clubs and organizations, and pursuing your personal dreams or goals. Clearly, a lot more than academic learning takes place at college. It’s also a time of social and personal growth.