A COMMON MOMENT FOR AN UNCOMMON TIME
Connecting body, spirit and well being.
DAC COURTYARD in the CFA, 4pm Friday.
As our diverse campus community in a multitude of ways processes the election results, we wanted to offer students, faculty and staff an opportunity to come together for contemplation and healing. We intend to share embodied and mindful practices from the worlds of dance, movement, and music. All are welcome.
Become an active bystander!
Male Survivors Sexual Assault Survivors Support Group
(Tuesdays beginning April 8)
The Sexual Assault Support Group for male-identified survivors will be held on
Tuesdays beginning April 8-April 29th from 5:30-6:45pm.
Meetings will follow an open support group format and participants determine group topics each week.
Contact Alysha B. Warren, LPC, Therapist/Sexual Violence Resource Coordinator for more information.
Reference “Tuesday Support Group” in the subject line.
The deadline to sign-up is Wednesday, April 2nd.
Your Social Game Plan: 5 Easy Ways to Feel Connected Next Semester
Dec. 29, 2013 by Carolyn Lipp ’14 — New Year’s Resolutions
The long stretch of winter break is a great time to reflect on the past semester. Some of you, especially first-year students, may feel like you still haven’t found your “niche” or social support group of close friends. Or, you may feel that you are too close to a certain group of people and want to branch out more. When I plan out my new year’s resolutions, I always write something socially-related and vague like, “make new friends” or “be friendly.” However, years of trying to fulfill these resolutions have taught me that changing social behavior can be difficult without consciously incorporating different techniques. So, I present to you five suggestions, collected from the Peer Advisors, of easy ways to make connections next semester.
1. Leave your door open (when you can)
This sounds like the simplest thing but it will make a huge difference in how approachable you are to your hallmates. For those times when you’re just hanging out in your room or shooting the breeze with your roommate, prop the door open with a chair or door stop and other people walking by are far more likely to stop by your room and chat with you. You’re also doing a service to the other people on your hall who want to be social but wouldn’t want to just go around knocking on closed doors. Who knows- you might even change the culture of your hall by starting a new trend!
2. Join a new student group or get involved in a new activity
This is the traditional nugget of wisdom that your parents are always telling you, but it’s also important to keep in mind that not all student groups are necessarily social opportunities. Some activities are better for making friends than others, and this is something you could easily find out by asking someone who’s in the group. For example, one activity highly recommended by Peer Advisor Cynthia Tong is the Terpsichore dance show, or “terp,” which is held once a semester. This is a great opportunity for people of all dance levels because everyone who tries out is placed into one of the dances. Plus, what’s better bonding than repeatedly dancing closely and sweatily to expertly coordinated moves? If you’re thinking of joining something new, you should check out the student groups fair that will be held next semester (date still pending).
3. Take advantage of new classes as an opportunity to make new friends
The first week of classes is the perfect opportunity to meet new people. Chat with whoever you’re sitting next to, ask for their numbers, and then—when the time is right—invite them to hang out. This can be as simple as inviting them to go with you to events that are related to the class or something else they might be interested in. This may seem daring, but just go for it. Chances are, they’ll be thrilled that someone is being so friendly and will be equally excited to hang out with someone new. If you’re feeling particularly bold, you can extend this attitude more generally and ask for people’s numbers anywhere you have a good conversation, like on a long Usdan line or at a party.
4. Ask a professor (and new class friend) out to lunch
Take advantage of the Daniel Family Commons Free Lunch Program to take your professor and your new class friend(s) out to lunch! These vouchers cover the cost of lunch for a faculty member and up to three students, or you can just go with your professor on a lunch date. Since asking a professor out to lunch on your own can be intimidating, inviting a friend from class can ease the awkwardness and give you something to bond over (“I can’t believe we just had lunch with professor x!!!”) It’s also a great way to connect with a professor you like and to get to know them in a smaller, cozier setting. To pick up a voucher, visit Dean Mike Whaley’s office at 220 North College. Did I mention it’s free food?
5. Do the crossword in public
This unusual suggestion comes from old-timer Peer Advisor Faisal Kirdar. He’s found that doing the crossword in a public place, like Usdan or Pi, is a great way to meet new people. Since so many of us college folk are into crosswords, you’re likely to find someone eager to collaborate. Although I’m not into crosswords myself, I have witnessed many interactions occur through the magic of the crossword puzzle. Hope you’ve found some of these suggestions helpful, and feel free to post your own tips in the comments. Happy New Year!!!
Spring Re-Orientation for First Year Students
Community Standards and Responsibilities
January 27th | 12:00PM | Usdan 108
Wesleyan has a long history of peer adjudication through the honor board and the Student Judicial Board. Members of these boards will share the role they play in upholding the community standards at Wesleyan. You will also hear from representatives in the dean of students office who will discuss the roles they have on campus and provide some advice about what you can do to be successful at Wesleyan. Facilitated by Dean of Students, Rick Culliton and Associate Dean of Students, Scott Backer.
Lunch will be provided.
Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) Open House
January 27th | 3:30PM | Office of Religious & Spiritual Life, 169 High St.
Come meet Wesleyan’s Chaplains, and ORSL staff and students who help coordinate spiritual and religious life on campus. Learn more at www.wesleyan.edu/orsl
Snacks will be served.
General Study Abroad Information Session
January 28th | 4:15 PM | Usdan 110
Join Director of International Studies, Carolyn Sorkin, and recent study-abroad participants to talk about the nuts and bolts of spending a semester or year studying in another country. Topics to be covered include program selection, the application process, credit transfer, cultural adjustment, financial aid, and much more. Come with questions!
Managing Your Dining Plan
January 29th | 4:15PM | Usdan 108
Haven’t quite figured out the meal plan system yet? Thinking about changing your meal plan? Worried about a special dietary need that you may have? Come to this Q&A session where campus and dining program administrators will be on hand to answer any questions you have. Facilitated by Bon Appétit Resident District Manager, Michael Strumpf, and Director of Usdan University Center, Michelle Myers-Brown.
Getting the Most Out of the Career Center
January 30th | 12:00 PM | Usdan 110
Come in and learn about how the Career Center can help you with finding your passion and locating an internship. This quick introduction to the Wesleyan Career Center will help you to utilize our services and access the extensive internship and online job database. We’ll also show you how you can set up your online profile to personalize your experience. This session is designed for both first-year students and transfer, exchange, and visiting students. Facilitated by Associate Director for Career Development and Campus Outreach, Persephone Hall.
Lunch will be provided.
Study Abroad and Students of Color
January 30th | 4:15 PM | Usdan 110
Join Director of International Studies, Carolyn Sorkin, and recent study-abroad participants to talk about the nuts and bolts of spending a semester or year studying in another country. Topics to be covered include program selection, the application process, credit transfer, cultural adjustment, financial aid, and much more. Special attention will be given to concerns common to students of color. Come with questions!
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Diversity Training
Visit the MLK Day website for additional details and events: http://www.wesleyan.edu/mlk/
Training Session Block I
January 31st | 10AM
Training Session Block II
January 31st | 1PM
Keynote Address
January 31st | 3:15PM | Memorial Chapel
Address by Anti-Racist Activist Tim Wise. Note, this is a ticketed event. Tickets can be picked up at the University Box Office, Usdan University Center. Students Tickets available Thursday, January 23. Reception and book signing to follow in the Zelnick Pavillion. Books will be available for purchase during the signing.
You, Booze, and the Board
February 3rd |12:00 PM | Usdan 110
This session will offer answers to students’ most frequently asked questions about addressing severe intoxication: What does alcohol poisoning look like? How do I know whether a friend needs medical assistance or not? What will PSafe do if I call them? If my friends go to the hospital, what happens next? Do they get in trouble? Are their parents called? What sanctions could they get? Conversation facilitated by Associate Dean of Students, Scott Backer.
Lunch will be provided.
Getting Good Advice, Giving Good Information, and Other Essential Nuggets of Wisdom
February 4th | 12:15 PM | Usdan 108
Returning to college for your second semester is a very different experience from heading off to college for the first time. You bring with you all of the things that you learned in the fall – your accomplishments, as well as the challenges you may have experienced. You have a wealth of “college knowledge.” The start of the spring semester is another new beginning and a time for you to reflect on your experiences in the fall and develop a plan for academic success.
What worked well for you and what did not? What strategies did you use in the fall that proved to be successful? What resources did you seek out? Did you have balance in your semester and follow the Rule of 7? At this workshop, we will talk about the organizational and study strategies that worked best, hear from peers about strategies and resources they found helpful, and set goals for the spring. Conversation facilitated by Dean for Academic Advancement and Dean for the Class of 2017, Louise Brown, Associate Dean of Student Academic Resources, Laura Patey, and the Peer Advisors.
Lunch will be provided.
Financing Study Abroad
February 5th | 4:15 PM | Usdan 110
Join Assistant Director of International Studies, Gail Winter, and Assistant Director of Financial Aid, Jacqueline Outlaw, for a discussion of the financial aspects of study abroad. Topics to be discussed will include financial aid, scholarships, and budgeting, as well as general information regarding study abroad. Come with questions!
Wellness at Wesleyan
February 6th | 12:00 PM | Usdan 110
The transition to college is stressful, both physically and mentally. Learn about what resources are available for your well-being during this unique transition as well as during the rest of your time at Wesleyan. Learn about the extensive resources Wesleyan offers to make sure you stay physically and mentally healthy during your time at Wes, as well as ways you can get involved. Facilitated by Director of Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Jennifer D’Andrea.
Lunch will be provided.
Desire and Relationship: What’s Love Got To Do With It?
February 8th | 12:00-3:00PM | Albritton 311
Participate in this no faith/multi-faith/interfaith conversation about Love and its many understandings and facets. All are welcome.
Catered Japanese lunch will be provided.
Bystander Intervention Training
February 9th | 10:00 AM-2:00PM | Usdan 110
WE Speak, WE Stand aims to create a community that is actively engaged in the prevention of sexual assault, relationship violence and advocates for the responsible use of alcohol. The goal of the program is to empower bystanders to intervene in high risk situations involving alcohol use, sexual assault and relationship violence. Empowered bystanders make the campus community safer by standing up and speaking out when they witness situations that could potentially harm the health and safety of others. Intervening with peers can be challenging for a number of reasons and training will provide you with the skills to move from inaction to action and intervene safely and effectively.
The first training features two distinct and separate tracks: sexual assault prevention and alcohol use intervention. For more information email Tanya Purdy at tpurdy@wesleyan.edu. Facilitated by Director of Health Education, Tanya Purdy and Sexual Violence Resource Coordinator and Therapist, Alysha Warren.
Lunch will be provided.
THANKS FOR PARTICIPATING!
Sponsored by the Office of New Student Orientation
wesleyan.edu/orientation
____________________________________________________
Attend 7 programs and record your attendance.
Turn in your completed passport to the Office of New Student Orientation
(Usdan, Rooms 122, 124 & 126)
to be entered in a drawing for an iPad
by February 12, 2014!
____________________________________________________
For more information about these and other programs,
check out the New Student Orientation Website,
or visit www.wesleyan.edu/orientation.
Take advantage of all the great things going on at Wesleyan!
MINDFULNESS CLASS@ WESLEYAN
Based on the positive student feedback last year, the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life is going to continue this initiative.
This “Wesleyanized” MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction) class is a 6 week class that focuses on various techniques of mindfulness practice and spiritual awareness. The goal is to give students a spiritual toolbox that is portable, replicable, and sustainable. Students will gain an understanding of the roles these practices can play in leading a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.
The first class will start on 1/27 and continue for 5 Mondays from 6-8pm. You can find more info and apply at: http://www.wesleyan.edu/orsl/jewish/PMW.html
Are you a first-year or transfer student and having trouble adjusting to life at Wesleyan? 
Maybe you haven’t formed a solid friend group yet, or maybe you’re not into the drinking scene?
If you would like to meet students who are having the same experience, get support, advice, and maybe make some lasting connections — come to our new group!
Thursday Evenings 5:45-7:00 pm
Davison Health Center
Solarium, Room 201, 2nd floor
Email counseling@wesleyan.edu
to sign up
All Students,
The first campus wide flu clinic will be on Thursday, October 17 from 12-4 in 108 Usdan. Click here for full details.
Are you a first-year or transfer student and having trouble adjusting to life at Wesleyan? Maybe you haven’t formed a solid friend group yet, or maybe you’re not into the drinking scene?
If you would like to meet students who are having the same experience, get support, advice, and maybe make some lasting connections — come to our new group!
Thursday Evenings 5:45-7:00 pm
Davison Health Center
Solarium, Room 201, 2nd floor
Email counseling@wesleyan.edu
to sign up
