Dear reader,

Congratulations! You did it! You’ve committed to your university!

This is a huge step in your life, and we are so excited for you. It comes with independence and responsibility. You are about to step into a new, foreign territory: college life! In fact, many of you will face the added challenge of settling in a new country and acclimating to a new culture. Students, you are resilient and we know you will succeed in this next endeavor. We write this letter to remind you that you are not alone. There are a multitude of resources available at your disposal to support you through this transition. We highly encourage you to reach out and utilize these resources; they are meant for your success.

Caring for your physical and mental well-being is essential to ensure a successful and gratifying college experience. In this letter, I will share some tips I’ve learned through my experiences.

1. Exercise and Diet: We often hear of the impending "freshman fifteen" the tendency of freshmen students to gain fifteen pound in their first year. This is often due to negligence and lack of self-care. However, a well-balanced diet and regular exercise hold immeasurable importance in both your physical and mental wellness. Your university will give you access to wellness centers and recreational facilities. These can range from traditional gym settings with treadmills and dumbbells to running tracks and swimming pools. Never be afraid to use these facilities; they are for students. It is a great opportunity to clear your mind, cleanse your body and find a safe space for yourself. Moreover, you will begin to indulge in dorm food. As trivial as it may seem at the moment, be mindful of your eating habits. The food you consume also feeds your mental well-being. A balanced diet and regular exercise are your best friends to achieve all your goals at college.

2. University resources: Your mental health is just as important as your physical well being. Your university, undoubtedly, offers ample resources to ensure this. From group counseling to personal therapy, from workshops to navigate difficult feelings to clubs that offer a support system, find your happy place. There is pride to be taken in a student who seeks help and support from the community around them, to in turn give back and become a productive member of that community.

3. Hold on to your passions: University life can get tough. And busy. From classes and research to clubs and student elections, from laundry and dishes to banks and healthcare, you will lead a very busy life. My greatest tip for college: hold on to your hobby, to that one activity that brings you pure joy. Be it dancing, singing, painting, reading, long drives or listening to music, never let go of your moments that bring you pure joy. Pursue these passions, for the plain reward of happiness. You will never lose your sense of self if you hold on to the small parts that make you unique!

We are so proud of you, seniors. And we cannot wait to see you achieve great heights!

With prayers and wishes,

Shahamah Tariq

- Hale Education Group