Support student success by spreading the word about Bear Down Week, Sept. 28-Oct. 2

Designed as a midsemester check in, Bear Down Week takes place Sept. 28-Oct. 2 – the sixth week of classes – at a time when students may be feeling the stress and pressure of midterms.

Staying connected to campus can make a meaningful difference in students’ success and sense of belonging. Throughout the week, students can attend a variety of events and activities focused on connection, creativity, self-care and wellness, music, arts, and campus traditions. These experiences are a great way for students to take a break, recharge and engage with other Wildcats.

How you can support students

Employees in student-facing positions, from faculty and advisors to library, recreation and housing staff, have countless opportunities for connection every day. Here are some ways you can help students feel supported:

• Acknowledge the midsemester stress that many students experience.
• Normalize the challenges of transitioning to a large university environment.
• Offer flexibility and periodic check-ins.
• Know and share resources, such as Counseling and Psych Services, Campus Health, Campus Recreation, and the Disability Resource Center.

Spread the word about Bear Down Week

You can support student success by spreading the word, reminding students about resources, and encouraging them to participate throughout the week.

• Share the Bear Down Week calendar of events, that includes a well-being fair, movies and meetups, REC and outdoor activities, music and games, a silent rave, Campus Community Connection Hub events, and a Taste of Global celebration of food and cultures.
• Use the elements in the Bear Down Week Toolkit to promote events and activities to students, faculty and staff in channels across your college or division. The toolkit links to Box content with photos and calendar of events graphics, and Adobe Express files for a poster, email header and social media posts.