My Wellness Journey

As a child, I dealt with anxiety, driven by an insatiable desire to excel in every way I could. The pressure to perform well in sports and achieve stellar grades was a constant companion throughout my formative years. I was my own toughest critic, setting impossibly high standards for myself.

Transitioning to college brought a new set of challenges. As an out-of-state student from New Jersey, I found myself in unfamiliar territory, both geographically and socially. The vastness of the college landscape left me in the dark about where to find the resources I desperately needed. With a history of anxiety already shaping my journey, I knew that navigating the college experience would require intentional efforts to prioritize my mental well-being.

However, there was no clear path to accessing these materials. I clicked around the JMU counselling center website and was left confused. I had always wished that there was one website that displayed all of JMU's wellness resources, one that included more than just the counselling center information.

Some people achieve their zen from other activities, such as working out or simply being outside. It was this realization that sparked the inception of a project close to my heart—a platform aimed at helping students like me discover the support they need. I recognized the need for a centralized space where valuable campus resources could be easily located and accessed. This platform would serve as a beacon for those seeking guidance, a virtual haven that fosters a culture of wellness.

Through blogs chronicling my experiences at JMU, I have shared my experiences of wellness spaces that I believe are truly worth exploring. From counseling services to meditation spaces to exercise resources, I've shared insights into the myriad ways students can nurture their mental and emotional well-being. I also researched and interviewed fellow students to obtain various perspectives on JMU's wellness offerings. Additionally, I wrote an informational article on JMU's efforts to better the mental health and wellness options for their students-- give it a read! Each blog entry serves as a guide, shedding light on the hidden gems of campus life that contribute to a holistic and fulfilling college experience.

The goal is simple but profound: to create a supportive community where the pursuit of wellness is not just encouraged but celebrated. By sharing my journey and insights, I hope to inspire others to prioritize their mental health in college and realize that we all are in the same boat.