Ripon College Days

Let's go fly a kite. Students in Professor of Physics Mary Williams-Norton's science and health education class enjoyed a stress-free activity flying kites last Thursday. Building kites is a quick, playful and useful activity for students to use w [Click to enlarge]

The end of the semester is always a stressful time for students, but many services are available on campus for students to manage their personal stress. Student Support Services, Career Development, Student Activities and the Counseling staff are all available to assist students.

"I don't think it would be inaccurate to say probably 75 percent of students would admit to increased stress levels in their lives at this point," says Cindy Viertel, campus counselor.

To some that percentage may be a shock; however, those experiencing the college life firsthand probably agree with Viertel's estimate.

Ripon College Nurse Kathy Welch-Krause says that the number of students who insist they've "been under a lot of stress lately" increases during this time of the year.

"Stress does have a big impact on your immune system," she says. "It makes you more susceptible to illness and also affects your recovery rate once you are ill."

During this time of the year SSS "receives a number of late tutoring requests, but typically these requests are a bit unrealistic," says Khrin.

"Those students who have not been particularly dedicated to attending class, handing in work, seeking resources from faculty and staff or preparing consistently for exams," says Krhin, "may feel a bit frantic with the realization that they may not be able to do quality work at this point in the semester." The career development office also works with many students stressed over potential summer employment, internships specifically.

"We have quite a few students in our office looking for summer internships," says Tom Vaubel, director of career development. "Finding an internship and then securing it can often be a time consuming and stressful process."

Director of Student Activities Dave Sarnowski says he and the student activities crew "have plans to have the Union open for group study, but do not have specific break events planned at this point."

Sarnowski also mentions that a number of board games and puzzles will be available for students to help them escape the stress for awhile.

Viertel reports the ripon.edu website also contains "lots of really good practical tips for managing stress." Students just need to click on the Health and Counseling Services link, then on the 'Virtual Pamphlet' link on the side column. From here students can search through "the best of the best," finding a number of pamphlets relating to stress and its management.

Viertel also suggests a few tips to avoid the pile-up of stress.

"Avoid being an avoider," she says. "Do work all semester instead of waiting until the end."

Also, students are encouraged to make a calendar breaking down all their responsibilities so they can see their progress toward a goal. It adds relief when something is completed and no longer a worry.

There is no fee for students to utilize the services provided by Ripon College. Viertel and others encourage students to take advantage of what is available. It could help to reduce stress and increase relaxation during the most stressful time of the college year.

Article Tools