Overcoming an In-Person School Year at Lakehead
Welcome back, Thunderwolves! Yesterday was Lakehead’s first day of classes. Lakehead University is back to a mostly in person school year, which can be exciting for some, but stressful for others. As seen in Lakehead University’s Covid-19 Updates, Covid-19 has limited our physical contact with each other since the middle of 2019. Just recently, in April of 2022, Lakehead’s Covid-19 policies were lifted, meaning that a transition into in-person schooling has emerged. Here, I will divulge some ways to de-stress during this period of change.
With the excitement of seeing our friends and staff again, also comes the uncertainty of how we, as students, may adjust to the new circumstances. Remember, it is okay to feel uncertain and even a bit scared to interact with larger groups of people again. You are not alone. Many students all over Ontario only know an online University structure and worry about succeeding in an in-person setting. To help ease the transition into in-person learning, one University student states some advice: “to stay focused and to not overthink the learning gaps in place.” It is challenging to accept what we cannot control, but with time and extra support, ease can be achieved. In accordance with the Lakehead community, Lakehead is ready to support your individual needs accordingly.
In the upcoming weeks, Lakehead Orillia is hosting many fun, exciting events that you can attend with your friends to wind down. University can be overwhelming at times, but there are plenty of opportunities to participate in activities for our well-being! For instance, amongst many other activities, there is a “Mature Student Hike and Hangout” being held at the loop beside Rotary Place on September 10th and “Drag Bingo Night” on September 23rd at the Orillia Dining Hall. Winding down can also mean taking a personal day for self-care to prevent burnout.
If you are still unsure about transitioning back into in-person classes, there are online options. Make your school year a hybrid year (in-person and online) to slowly accustom yourself to an in-person learning environment. Everyone adjusts to new experiences at their own pace. Listen to what your body and mind are telling you and trust yourself! Check out your course options on MyInfo for more information on individual courses and how they are being conducted. In addition, for extra support on campus, never hesitate to reach out to Student Health and Wellness Services here where you can book appointments for individual counseling sessions and health services such as a nurse practitioner, a chiropractor, and naturopath services. Have a great school year everyone! Good luck!