Brooklyn
On the afternoon of April 8, students gathered in Tuohy Hall for the Health and Wellness Fair hosted by the Center of Counseling and Wellness. The event brought together many organizations and campus resources, creating a space for students to learn more about ways to support their overall well-being.
The fair focused on several aspects of wellness, dental and mental health, identity support and more. It also emphasized that taking care of yourself goes beyond just physical health. One of the event’s vendors, the Cosmetic Dentistry Center, highlighted the importance of maintaining balance across multiple areas, including mental, emotional and social well-being.
Many of the conversations centered around managing stress, which is a common experience for college students. Some wellness vendors shared that taking a break and checking in with yourself can make a significant difference. Others encouraged students to slow down and recognize when they need to step away from overwhelming times in order to reset and refocus.
Students who attended the event also shared their perspectives on what they found valuable. Some students explained that the fair gave them the opportunity to explore resources they were not previously aware of, while others appreciated having a space to step away from their typical routines. For many, the event served as a reminder that SJNY provides support systems to help students seek help and guidance naturally.
The event also highlighted the importance of St. Joseph’s community and fostering a connection among students, allowing them to see that they are surrounded by others who are navigating similar experiences. Through available resources and a caring campus, students can feel more confident in seeking healthier lives moving forward.
Long Island
On April 20, the Center for Counseling and Wellness on the Long Island Campus held its Health and Wellness Fair from in the gymnasium of the John A. Danzi Athletic Center.
The fair brought together over 40 organizations from within SJNY and around the Long Island area to provide students with information and resources related to health and overall well-being.
SJNY organizations present included athletics and Campus Ministry, among others.
Outside organizations included local hospitals such as Stony Brook and NYU Langone, Suffolk County emergency services and issue-based groups that focus on matters such as domestic violence.
Students could also participate in free yoga and jiu jitsu demonstrations during Common Hour.
“During college, it’s important to figure out what health and wellness means to you, and all the resources that are available to you,” said Alexandra Peirano, MHS, the Assistant Director of Wellness for the Center for Counseling and Wellness.
Peirano said that when planning the event, effort was put into making sure that the available organizations were relevant to issues students may be facing. She specifically pointed out organizations focused on mental health and substance abuse.
The hope for such an extensive event is that it is able to connect students with resources within the larger community surrounding the University, setting them up to maintain their health throughout and after their academic careers.
“Once you graduate, you want to know what’s out there and what’s available to you,” she concluded.
