Practicing Self-Compassion, “What Black Studies Means to Me,” and Well-being Resources
Dear Students,
Last month, I joined students for a self-compassion break led by Dr. Aisha Holder at a University Life and Columbia Health event. This was very meaningful for many participants, including myself because I continually manage my own imposter syndrome and, at times, self-doubt. Sometimes, I can be hard on myself and even wonder if I belong or am successful in the various spaces I have the opportunity to engage in - work, friends, etc. I have heard from students who feel the same way. This often surprises me, given what I know of their wonderful contributions to the Columbia community, including supporting their friends in their times of need. In moments of managing my own self-doubt, I try to practice self-compassion, and I encourage you to do the same. I’m grateful for Dr. Holder’s reminder that self-compassion is not selfishness; it can actually help us to increase the empathy we have for one another. We all manage times when we need additional support from others, and it is important that we reach out to our community and resources for help, as needed.
Well-being Tips
Hand-on-Heart: Soothing Touch Exercise
When you notice you’re under stress, take 2-3 deep breaths. Then, gently place your hand over your heart, feeling the gentle pressure and warmth of your hand. If you wish and if you’re able to, place both hands on your chest, noticing the difference between one and two hands. Feel the natural rising and falling of your chest as you breathe in and as you breathe out. This tip is from Dr. Aisha Holder’s presentation, Self-Compassion: Why It Matters and How to Build a Practice.
Financial Well-being: Do I need a credit card?
iGrad has tools to help you better understand 1) the financial terms of credit cards, 2) your budget and spending habits, 3) how using a credit card impacts your credit score, and 4) if opening a credit card will support or hinder your financial goals. Check out the Using Credit Cards Responsibly course in iGrad, a free resource available to all Columbia students even after you graduate.
Student Spotlight
James Jennings: What Black Studies Means to Me
James Jennings, Jr. is a second-year Master’s student in the African and African American Diaspora Studies Department. He is a Double Discovery Teaching Fellow, educating high school youth in popular African American protest music and literature and the poetry of the Harlem Renaissance. In this post, James reflects on his academic journey, family history, work as a teacher, and the importance of Black Studies as a discipline. Read more.
“When we acknowledge the past honestly, we can begin to understand how to effectively lead liberatory movements that transform our present and future.” -James Jennings (GSAS '23)
February is Healthy Relationships Month
This video from Columbia Health Sexual Violence Response shares tips for how to protect yourself and spot online abuse within dating apps and on social media. Login with your UNI to view. Watch here.
Well-being Events and Opportunities with University Life
- Meet and Greet: First Generation Graduate and Professional Students (In-Person). Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Vice President for Student Affairs, invites first generation graduate and professional students to meet in small groups, share their experiences, and connect with first gen peers from across Columbia. Please note: These are small group settings. If we cannot accommodate everyone who has interest, we will look to host more sessions in the future. Share your interest by Friday, February 24.
- Yoga Class (In-Person). Take a break to relax with yoga in Earl Hall, hosted by Religious Life every Thursday. Please bring your own mat and arrive 5-10 minutes early to sign in and set up. Thursday, February 23, 7:00 - 8:00 PM. Learn more.
Well-being Events, Opportunities, and Resources from Columbia Health
Columbia Health supports the health and well-being needs of students from the Morningside/Manhattanville campuses. Learn more about their services and who they serve.
- Student Support Spaces (Virtual and In-Person). Counseling and Psychological Services providers will guide and facilitate these sessions, which include an International Students Support Space, Mindfulness, Time Management, and more. Learn More.
- Teens & Tech: Partnering w/ Youth to Address Tech-Facilitated Abuse (Virtual) Join Columbia Health Sexual Violence Response and Day One to discuss strategies for identifying and preventing technology-facilitated abuse among adolescents. This session is designed for students, faculty, and staff who work or plan to work with adolescents in a professional or volunteer capacity. Tuesday, February 28, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM. Register here.
- Dog Therapy Study Breaks (In-Person). Take a break and engage in some healthy stress coping through relaxing activities and hanging out with therapy dogs! First come, first served. Please wear a mask and bring your CUID. Hosted by Alice! Health Promotion.
Well-being Events, Opportunities, and Resources from Student Health on Haven
Student Health on Haven supports the health and well-being needs of students from Columbia University Irving Medical Center Campus (CUIMC). Learn more about their services and who they serve.
- Black Well-Being and Ally Resources. This resource page outlines resources for Black-identified students, anti-racist education and tools for allies, and CUIMC-specific support and resources. Learn more.
- Support Groups and Gathering Spaces. Counseling Services providers will guide and facilitate these sessions, which include First Gen, Creating Fulfilling Relationships, Connecting Through Loss, and Transitions: Leaning into Change and Growth. Learn more.
- In-Person Guided Meditations Begin March 1. In collaboration with the Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, Well-Being and Health Promotion is offering in-person meditation on Wednesdays in the Knowledge Center Orange Room beginning Wednesday, March 1. Live Zoom-based guided meditations are also available. Learn more.
Health Reminders
Did you receive an online survey via email from the American College Health Association (ACHA)? Don’t forget to fill it out! This survey will help the University to understand your health needs and inform programs, policies, and services that support you.
Preparing for Spring Recess (March 13-17)
- All full-time students, international students, and students on the Columbia Student Health Insurance Plan have access to care when they are away from campus, in the United States or abroad. Learn more about your benefits, and make sure you bring your insurance card!
- Morningside/Manhattanville Students: Columbia Health will remain open during spring recess. Drop-in visits are not available during this time. Check here for hours of operation.
- CUIMC Students: Student Health on Haven will operate normally during spring recess.
- If you’re traveling abroad, make sure you’re prepared. Check out this advice from Go Ask Alice! about how to get ready for your big trip!
Protect yourself and prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- The University recommends following community guidance on indoor masking.
- Follow CDC guidance for COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations. Appointments are available at Columbia Health and Student Health on Haven.
- Stay home if you’re not feeling well.
Take care,
Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
University Life
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His