While Bryn Mawr College students don't have orientation, we do have Customs Week. This week is the first five days on campus. It involves moving in, and learning about the wonderful traditions on campus as well as about safety and health resources. It also involves meeting some amazing upperclassmen who may be your Customs People (they are basically your parents for the week), Peer Mentors (people who guide your dorm through the woes of scheduling and more), Community Diversity people (who make sure there's no tension because of differences, but are also there for you), and also just all the other upperclassmen. There are campus tours and you have to figure out how to open your mailbox and sign up for work study. On top of that, you've just moved away from your family or caregiver(s).
So while it's crazy and you're meeting new people and learning so much valuable information about BMC, your customs people won't let your forget about self-care. I have definitely felt myself stretched a bit thin, but because they continue to remind you about self-care, I've cherished some moments to myself amidst the chaos of meeting everyone on campus. These moments of self-care look different for everyone, but I'll give you some personal examples of my own self care routine. They involve:
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1. Shameless amounts of poptarts.
2. Then, when my gut cries for help after shameless amounts of poptarts, some health foods including salads and beloved Naked juice.
3. Shamelessly taking the time to be alone, organize your stuff after moving in, and dance to some old Demi Lovato.
I don't have a picture, but I do have a playlist. Only feel good rocker vibes aloud in this playlist.
4. Above all, talking to people you trust when things get rough. This could be your mom, your best friend back home, or your customs people. Or all of the above. But take the time to validate your emotions. This is a crazy time, and you are valid, and you are loved.
