Self Care as the Semester Winds Down

December 10, 2021

Dear Students,

This past week has not been easy. You have done incredible work to care not only for your own well-being, but also that of our entire University community during last week's tragedy and at an already stressful time of year for many. You may be feeling frustration, concern, anxiety, and stress--please know that you are not alone. I, too, have experienced many of these emotions recently. To cope, I continue to lean on family, friends and resources when needed. I hope you will continue to do the same.

Well-being Tip: Creating a New Environment
New York City is a notoriously loud place. If you’re finding that the noise around you is distracting or you could just use a change, there are many websites that provide background noise intended to help you focus and/or relax. Noisli or Rainy Mood are great places to start.

Omicron Variant COVID-19
News about the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve; I want to assure you that the University is keeping a watchful eye on it as more information becomes available. There is still much to be discovered about this variant, but we have done this before, and I know that our community will remain resilient.

We will continue to use emerging data to inform our policies to prioritize our community’s safety first and foremost, as we have done with each new development throughout the pandemic. For the latest updates on the Omicron variant, make sure to regularly check the COVID-19 website.

Importance of Wearing Your Mask
Evidence shows that wearing a mask helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. I realize it is not easy to wear a mask during most of your day, but it is important. Please continue to be diligent in wearing your mask anytime you're indoors, including libraries, lounges, and other community settings. The University also strongly encourages wearing a mask outdoors when in large groups.

Questions about the COVID-19 Booster Shot?
Check out the COVID-19 website for more information.

Please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Take care,

Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
University Life
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His

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