Helpful Resources

November 2007

By Carmen M. Vazquez

Vice President, Student Affairs

Dear Torero Parents,

     I would like to thank all of you for your collaboration and concern during the devastating fires that have affected so many lives here in San Diego. For some of us, this last week was a disruption in our schedules and a close call, but for other faculty, staff and families who lost their homes, the hardships continue and we are holding you all in our hearts and prayers. We are thankful that you are all here with us today and again reminded what really matters: the safety and well-being of our families and friends.

     With the near approach of Thanksgiving, I have a lot to be grateful for. At the top of my list are my family, your student(s), my staff, USD faculty & staff and you dedicated Torero Parents.

     Before addressing the normal issues that may arise during this time of year, I would like to remind all of you that the emotional impact of the fires can linger and you should give your students the opportunity to voice their emotions and concerns. If you are worried about your student and how they are dealing with the emotional stress of the fires, please visit the information posted on our web that we give you helpful guidelines: http://www.sandiego.edu/alert/pdf/emotional_impact.pdf

November is often a turning point in the semester for many of our students, midterms are over and students have a realistic gauge of how they are doing. According to Dr. Steve Sprinkle, Director of the Counseling Center, “Most of the time college students feel good about their lives, but almost everyone experiences temporary periods when things go poorly. How can you tell whether your student is simply experiencing one of life’s inevitable “bumps” or is struggling with a full-fledged depression? One crucial indicator that the staff at the Counseling Center assesses when they work with students is whether a student’s academic or social functioning has taken a turn for the worse. Typically, any significant decrease in daily functioning is good reason for a student to consult with the Counseling Center.” Students can secure free, confidential consultations by coming to the center during “walk-in hours,” from 11 am to 3 pm, Mondays through Fridays. Learn more about the center by visiting its Website.

     With cold and flu season upon us, the Student Health Center reminds us that students can receive a flu shot or intranasal flu mist for $20. Appointments are not necessary. Our health educators suggest that to avoid getting sick and spreading germs we should wash our hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an antibacterial hand sanitizer especially after using the bathroom, blowing our nose, touching our hair or face, or using someone else’s computer. I was surprised to learn that over 63 % of Americans according to the Center for Disease Control report do not routinely wash their hands. Of course, eating well, drinking lots of liquids, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding late nights and getting exercise are proven ways to stay healthy.

As the parent of college age students and Director of Campus Recreation, Gary Becker is a firm believer in parents encouraging their student to stay active and healthy. “In collaboration with our health and wellness professionals we are able to develop state of the art comprehensive wellness/fitness programs for students. From aquatics to intramural sports clubs and two fitness centers that are open from 7am-midnight, there are activities designed to fit into their busy academic lives.

     I hope many of you were as excited as I was to visit the new Missions Café and Fitness Center located in the valley during Family Weekend (Oct.19). Students and staff are delighted to have this facility as it combines the expertise of our wellness professionals with our fitness staff. Let me know what you and your student think of our new Café and Fitness Center. I will be hosting my next CONVERSATIONS WITH CARMEN on Thursday, November 29, 2007 from 3:00-4:00 pm at Aromas Café. These are informal gatherings at Aromas coffee shop in which I treat students to a beverage of their choice and together we serve up interesting conversation. Your student as always is welcome to come, have a beverage on me and share their thoughts and ideas.

     Learning occurs in different locales. The goal of Outdoor Adventures is to provide an environment in which students feel comfortable challenging their perceived limits. For some that means climbing Stonewall peak, or sea kayaking in Mexico. For others it may mean a day hike in Julian or simply spending a weekend with a new group of students. Tina Carter Thompson, Director of Outdoor Adventures shares “when students return from a trip with a bounce in their step, we know they are basking in the memory of learning something about the outdoors, a new friend or even themselves.” For students who want a Thanksgiving Adventure check out HAVASUPI BACKPACKING in the Grand Canyon.

     Reflecting about the many things I have to be grateful for, it gives me a great sense of pride and humility to think about the many parents such as you who entrust their young adults to us for their college education. Thank you. On behalf of my talented Student Affairs Team, I appreciate your interest and your goodwill. I encourage you to communicate your expectations to your student and to enjoy the dynamic relationship you have with your young adult.

May your Thanksgiving be bountiful.

Yours in Torero spirit,

Carmen M. Vazquez,
Vice President for Student Affairs