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Health and Wellness

Wellness Wednesday: Building Connections on Campus

Your college journey is about more than just your academics. Exploring opportunities for career development, mental health support, extracurricular activities and meaningful connections with faculty, peers, and campus groups is also essential. This is your roadmap to thriving and connecting on campus. 

yoga class taking place on terrace

Utilizing Campus Resources

One of the best ways to build connections on campus is to take advantage of the resources available. The Career Development Center is an excellent place to jumpstart the career planning process. All degree-seeking students and recent graduates can access a wide array of professional resources, programs and services, including career fairs like the College of Engineering Career Fair on Feb. 6 and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Career Fair on Feb. 28. 

While the Counseling Center offers excellent individual therapy services, students also have access to group therapy and workshops to help cultivate their emotional and psychological wellness. Prevention Services offers a variety of drop-in spaces to find connection and support through different experiences.

Wellness and Recreation offers many programs and services, including fitness classes, wellness coaching, intramural sports and outdoor adventures trips. Check out this extensive guide to find all Wellness and Recreation has to offer. 

Involvement in Extracurricular Activities

Students can choose from over 700 diverse student clubs and organizations to participate in on NC State’s campus. In addition to clubs, campus events provide an alternative way to foster meaningful connections. Check out the university’s events calendar to see what’s happening across campus. 

Wellness and Recreation hosts monthly Howl and Chill events to unwind from the pressures of school. February’s event, Music and Moves, gives students a chance to learn dances from some of NC State’s top dance organizations including KPack, Sube Ritmo, Fusion Dance Crew and The District Dance Collective

Building Faculty Relationships

Connecting with faculty is vital for academic success and skill enhancement. Actively participating in class discussions, attending office hours and engaging in research opportunities are key strategies. Check out this comprehensive guide for detailed insights and tips on how to develop relationships with your professors. Maintaining respectful and professional communication, adhering to college guidelines and attending academic events further contribute to these meaningful connections. 

Building Peer Relationships

Harvard Business Review conducted a study on how creative collaboration can strengthen positive social relationships in organizational settings, particularly in fostering closer relationships among coworkers. Just as being creative in the workplace helps coworkers connect, students also benefit from cultivating creative ideas with their peers in a group setting. It not only improves the quality of your work, but it can create positive and supportive relationships and close bonds with your classmates. 

College is about making connections professionally and socially, and is key to thriving here at NC State. Utilizing campus resources, joining clubs and engaging with your faculty and peers will enrich your college experience, and help you to foster lasting relationships.