Dear Students,
Some of you have already begun final exams and all of you are in various stages of studying, paper writing, and final project completion. I won't wish you "good luck" because your academic achievements are not the result of chance or wishful thinking. Your accomplishments are consistently impressive and as the semester winds down, final exams, papers and projects provide opportunities for you to showcase your brilliance.
It is, though, important to acknowledge that this period can be stressful and I encourage all of you to continue to tend to your mental health and well-being over the days and weeks ahead. The offices and individuals with whom many of you have interacted during the semester remain ready and willing to provide support. From academic coaching and accommodations to counseling and spiritual guidance, and so much more, the university is here for you.
For those who do not wish to - or simply don't have time to - visit an office, there are a number of online resources, including tips from the Counseling Center on reducing test anxiety. And Headspace - an app that helps support mental health through meditation and mindfulness tools - has proven to be popular for well over a thousand Lehigh students.
This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of resources or an overly long message. Just know that you are all valued members of the Lehigh community and it's important that we take care of ourselves and each other. So check in on each other. Talk with your friends, your roommates, your sorority sisters, your teammates, members of your clubs and orgs. Let your community know how you're doing. And if you or they are not ok, don't hesitate to reach out for support. Lehigh is here for you!
It has truly been special to be back "in person" this semester and I look forward to seeing campus "open up" even more in the spring. Whether renewing spring traditions or introducing new or expanded services, there are a few things in the works that I believe will contribute to an even fuller spring semester student experience. More information to come!
In the meantime, here's to a successful end of the semester and a safe, festive and restorative winter break.
Ric Hall
Vice President for Student Affairs