News & Announcements

Spring is the perfect time to not only clean out your living space but also your pantry. As we welcome the warmer weather and fresh beginnings, it's a great opportunity to take stock of your food supplies and consider donating any unwanted goods. Just like we declutter our homes, decluttering our pantries can make a significant impact on those facing food insecurity. By spring cleaning your pantry and donating unopened, unexpired food items to programs like Grocery Give and Grab, you can help ensure that no student goes hungry. So, as you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember to extend your efforts to your pantry and make a difference in the lives of others.

 

About Grocery Give and Grab

The average meal plan on campus, Block 115, provides students with roughly one meal a day. This alone is not enough to adequately supply a student with proper nutrition. It also doesn’t account for the social meals with classmates, the late-night hunger meals, or a snack throughout the day. Many students and their families have the means to replenish these meal plans throughout the semester, and many others do not. A study from the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS) shows that 23% of undergraduate college students experience food insecurity at some point in their college career. To help ease the worry of students for their next meal, Residence Life created the program Grocery Give and Grab back in Spring 2019. Now, our program worries about keeping food on its shelves as well.

Grocery Give and Grab, or G3 for short, started from a campus move-out collection of non-perishables, unopened, unexpired food items. Examples of donatable goods are soups, peanut butter, granola bars, and noodles. When students leave for Winter Break or the Summer, items are collected and then donated to various local groups and people in the community. Such positive feedback was received that an expansion was created to become 5 Residence Life ‘Pocket Pantries’ across campus. The locations range from the Hullabaloo front desk, Commons outside the South Area Office, White Creek Activity Center, Gardens Community Center, and outside the Residence Life Central Office in the SSB. While the Pocket Pantries receive immense support from many on-campus and campus-affiliated groups, it seems food is flying off shelves faster than we can restock.

The goal is to not turn any student away from hunger. Grocery Give and Grab and the 5 Pocket Pantries are not a way to solve food insecurity, but to lessen the worries. If a student is hungry at the moment and needs a snack, we do not turn anyone away from gathering an item from the pantry. What the program needs is a larger supply.

This program is asking for further support from our students, staff, faculty, and outside organizations to help in restocking our pantries and supplying our students with healthful meals. The reason we started this program and added to the Pocket Pantries was to fight food insecurity on our campus. We want students who are on their way to class to not worry about their next meal and to feel some sense of relief. All forms of donation are accepted.

           

How you can help

There are several ways you can contribute to addressing food insecurity on campus and supporting the Grocery Give and Grab program. Firstly, you can consider donating non-perishable food items to the Pocket Pantries located across campus. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in ensuring that no student goes hungry. Additionally, spreading awareness about the program and its mission can help garner further support from students, staff, faculty, and outside organizations. By working together, we can create a community that prioritizes the well-being and nutrition of all students, providing them with the resources they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's make a positive impact on the lives of our fellow students.    

If you have any interest in supporting our program and helping our students, please email Kenya Reeves at [email protected].

To cultivate the healing power of mindfulness requires much more than mechanically following a recipe or set of instructions. - Jon Kabat-Zin

 

To some, the practice of mindfulness may seem similar to many of the new-age wellness trends that quickly gain popularity on social media. However, mindfulness is a practice that dates back thousands of years. Originally, it was a practice rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Still, as it has made its way to the Western world, it evolved from its religious roots and became a secular practice backed by science and research. Today, mindfulness is practiced by individuals from all walks of life to reduce stress and enhance feelings of well-being.

Mindfulness is a form of meditative practice that elevates present-moment awareness (Ludwig & Kabat-Zinn, 2008). The scientific foundation for mindfulness rests on two key interventions: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. Both interventions have proven effective time and time again, and together they created a basis for ongoing research surrounding mindfulness techniques. In this research, the following things about the benefits of mindfulness were discovered (Staff, 2024):

• Decreased anxiety and depression.
• Improved immune function
• Improved mental clarity, focus, and overall brain function.
• Improved heart health due to decreased blood pressure.
• Improved self-confidence.
• Improved mood.
• Improved sleep.

If these improvements to well-being are alluring to you, here are a few mindfulness techniques to get you started in your practice.

• The Wheel of Awareness
  • This can expand your awareness from yourself to your outer world for a full and encompassing sense of connection and knowing.
• Leaves on a Stream
  • This will allow you to let go of problematic thoughts through practicing cognitive diffusion.
• Eye of the Hurricane Meditation
  • Use this meditation to connect to a place of inner peace and calm.

For other mindfulness resources, you can visit www.mindful.org.

Now that you know the basics, all there is left to do is get started! Download this PDF for a full description of the practices listed above. Happy practicing!

 

Sources:

Ludwig, D. S., & Kabat-Zinn, J. (2008). Mindfulness in medicine. JAMA, 300 (11), 1350-1352.

Staff, M. (2024, February 21). The science of mindfulness. https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-mindfulness/

The inside scoop of APM’s and how they can help you succeed this semester!

 

The Academic Peer Mentors (or APM’s for short) are a team of students from diverse backgrounds who are trained and knowledgeable on campus resources and are ready to help students with whatever they may need! For some of us who took this on-campus position, we were once first year students and want to offer that helping hand that we had or wish we had our first years of college. For others, we have had the experience of switching majors or applying for graduate school and want to help other aggies succeed in preparation and execution of their future endeavors. Ultimately, we are here to give back and help all Aggies make the most of their time here in Aggieland! We offer a wide range of services to help Aggies succeed and below are testimonies from some of our current APM’s!

 

Academic Check Ups

As Academic Peer Mentors, we want to help YOU reach YOUR version of academic success, and one way we can work with you is through our Academic Check Ups! Academic Check Ups (ACUs) are 1:1 meetings with an APM to receive academic advice or coaching on anything from how to prepare for an exam, time management, academic resources, and much more! As the mentee, you get to choose the frequency of the meetings, what goals you want to work on, and if you would like to meet with an APM of the same major. The APM team will meet you where you are in your academic journey and offer their own advice, experiences, and resources to help out!

With over 18 personable ACUs in the Fall of ‘22 here is what second-year APM Payton Davis had to say about her own experience as a mentee:

“I used the APM program the spring semester of my freshmen year. It helped me a lot with keeping a good schedule and reducing the amount of stress I was under. Because of this experience and seeing the direct benefits from using the resource, I decided to become an Academic Peer Mentor in order to help people that were in similar places that I was in.”

If you are interested in an ACU feel free to sign up using this link : https://tamu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8197y7obO16VCZv

 

REVTalks

REVTalks are fun campus wide events like “TedTalks” where expert panelists share their experiences on a specific academic topic. In the past we have covered topics such as Internships and Research, Financial Aid & Scholarships (FAFSA), ETAM, Study Abroad and much more!! Each event also has a specific theme and usually involves food or snacks when students RSVP in advance. (If someone does not RSVP we usually have some extra goodies just in case!) Our most recent REVTalks included video game themed “Switch’in it up” with TAP and Minors and a “Let’s Taco-bout Registration”. With these events being hosted approximately every 2 weeks throughout the fall and spring semester, it’s hard to miss one! Here is what first-year APM Nat Chumpirom ‘26 had to say when she attended her first REVTalk:

“During the first semester of my freshman year, my roommate invited me to accompany her to the Internships and Research REVTalk, where I learned a lot about how to get involved in research on campus as well as what to look for and what to take from internships. In this case, one of the panelists was a graduate student of my major, so it was actually quite helpful to hear information specifically catered to me! I ended up gaining a lot of useful knowledge about something that I didn’t necessarily need to be worried about just yet, but it was reassuring to know there were people on campus, let alone student workers just like me, who were very knowledgeable about this and who I could go to with these inquiries.”

 

Program of the Month

Programs are catered to in-hall residents and are a great way to build community within the residence halls and to learn something new! With our brand new Program of the Month initiative, we have carefully curated programs circulating all halls such as “Healthy Habits” for the month of October and “Finals prep” for the month of November. Feel free to ask your RAs about any APM programs going on in your dorm as we tend to change them each semester. We also like to program outside of residents halls by putting on tabling events in the MSC or SSB. You can expect free resources, tips, and a fun time when the APM’s are involved! Programs are not necessarily geared towards just in-hall residents, and any on-campus organization or office can request a APM collaboration program using this link: tx.ag/apmcollab. When asked “What was your favorite thing about the program?” following a recent event, here is what residents responded with:

 

"I loved meeting new people!"

"(APM) Christina Garza is amazing!"

"The donuts and bingo!"

"Everyone was very friendly!"

 

Staff Office Hours

Much like how professors have office hours, the APM Team has open office hours where students can walk in and ask questions. With offices located in Hullabaloo 125 & Commons 102, our staff is ready to welcome any and all students! We also have FREE scantrons, flashcards, and test taking supplies such as bluebooks for people who sign-in! We are honestly so happy when people drop in and even happier if we are able to help you find a resource!

 

More information about when our offices are open, future programs and events, and on-campus resources can be found on Instagram @tamu_apm. If you have any other questions or inquiries feel free to email [email protected] as well!

 

Howdy Ags!

Happy New Year! How are we feeling about 2024? Ay whoop! I'm Justin Majors, and I'm here to share some profound insights on the power of choices, actions, and leadership, especially within the vibrant Texas A&M University community.

But before we dive into the heart of the matter, let's kick things off with a bit of fun—a round of This or That's to get those brains warmed up:

• Commons - Sbisa
• Canes - Laynes
• Early morning - Late Night
• Group Project – Individual Work
• Fuego - Torchy’s
• MSC – Evans Library
• Board Game – Video Game
• Leader - Follower
• Breakfast - Lunch – Dinner
• Introvert – Extrovert
• Northside - Apartments - Southside

Choice

Throughout this activity, you've made choices—some easy, some based on experiences, and some just reflecting the norm. But beyond this exercise, think about the choices you've made throughout your college journey. From choosing A&M to deciding whether to study or not, you've been at the helm of your decisions. Your choices turn into actions, and as we know, actions speak louder than words.

The Power of Actions in Leadership

These actions are critical in leadership and followership because they are what everyone else sees. Even when you choose not to act, that decision still demonstrates a choice. The power you hold to make a choice and move forward is essential for leadership. Every decision you make showcases your priorities. For instance, how you engage in activities or adjust your approach, be it during conversations, small group sessions, or lunch chats—each reflects a choice you've made in different ways.

Now, you might wonder, how do these choices tie into leadership?

Leadership as a Choice

As students, you are the decision-makers. While there are individuals above making choices, it's your decisions that can truly make an impact. If you decide to stand for something, the university must listen. Your choice is your voice. Silence or inaction can be interpreted as acceptance or indifference, but when you speak up, advocate for change, or support initiatives, your voice resonates loud and clear. Even in following a leader, you are making a choice, and agreeing with their actions. No choice is a choice in itself.

The Importance of Using Your Voice

Your voice is a powerful tool. When you choose to use it, you contribute to the vibrant tapestry of perspectives on campus. Whether it's expressing opinions in class discussions, participating in student government, or joining advocacy groups, your voice matters. It's not just about speaking for yourself but also representing those who may not have the opportunity to be heard. Don't underestimate the impact of your ideas and the change your voice can inspire.

Getting Involved: A Catalyst for Growth

Now, let's delve into the significance of getting involved on campus. Your journey at Texas A&M becomes richer when you actively participate in student organizations and campus life. In addition to fostering a sense of community and belonging, involvement exposes you to diverse perspectives and experiences. Whether it's joining NRHH, RHA, or Eco-Reps, each organization offers a unique platform to connect with like-minded individuals, make lifelong friends, and leave a lasting impact on campus culture.

Developing Leadership Skills: Your Path to Success

Engaging in student organizations and residence life jobs is not just about adding lines to your resume. It's about honing crucial leadership skills that will serve you well beyond your college years. As an RA, APM, Tour Guide, Desk Worker, or Game Room Worker, you're not only fulfilling a role but developing skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills are the building blocks of successful leadership in any field, equipping you with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of the professional world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, your choices and actions define your leadership journey. Joining student organizations like NRHH, RHA, and Eco-Reps, or taking on roles such as RA, APM, Tour Guide, Desk Worker, or Game Room Worker, provides invaluable experiences. These opportunities not only contribute to the development of your leadership skills but also create a positive impact on the university community.

So, use your voice, get involved, and actively develop your leadership skills. Remember, every choice you make is an opportunity to lead, and your voice matters. So, make the choice to lead and let your actions speak volumes. Happy leading!

 

About the Author: Justin Majors

Coordinator of Leadership and Engagement
Department of Residence Life | Division of Student Affairs

As college students return from their well-deserved break, starting the new semester with a fresh mindset and a plan to make the most of the upcoming months is essential. This blog post will provide valuable insights and tips on organizing your hall space, finishing the semester strong, building a community, and utilizing on-campus resources effectively.

1. Organizing Your Hall Space:

• Declutter: Start the semester off right by decluttering your living space. Avoid unnecessary items and create a clean, organized environment that promotes productivity and focus.
• Personalize: Make your hall space feel like home by adding personal touches such as photos, artwork, or inspirational quotes. Creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere will enhance your overall well-being and motivation.

2. Starting Strong:

• Set Goals: Reflect on your previous semester and identify areas for improvement. Set realistic goals for the current semester, both academically and personally. Write them down and regularly review them to stay on track.
• Time Management: Develop a schedule that effectively balances your academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and personal life. Prioritize tasks, create to-do lists, and use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to increase productivity.

3. Building a Community:

• Attend Campus Events: Take advantage of your college or university's various events and activities. These events provide opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and expand your social network.
• Join Clubs and Organizations: Engage in clubs and organizations that align with your interests and passions. Not only will this help you meet like-minded individuals, but it will also enhance your personal and professional growth.

     4. Utilizing On-Campus Resources:

• Academic Support: Use on-campus resources such as tutoring centers and academic advisors. These resources can assist you in improving your study skills, understanding complex concepts, and staying on top of your coursework.
• Career Services: Start planning for your future by utilizing career services offered by your college. They can help you explore career options, polish your resume, and provide networking opportunities.

Bottomline:

By following these key points, college students can make the most of their semester after returning from break. Remember to stay organized, set goals, build a supportive community, and take advantage of the resources available on campus. With a proactive approach and a positive mindset, you'll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling semester.

As the end of the semester approaches, students across the country eagerly await the much-needed holiday break. The break provides a chance to reunite with family and friends. However, traveling home may require additional planning and considerations for college students living on campus. In this article, we will provide helpful tips for navigating the logistics of traveling, making the most of your time at home, and returning to campus rejuvenated and ready for the next semester.

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Plan and book your travel in advance: Start planning your travel arrangements as early as possible to avoid last-minute hassles and skyrocketing prices. Research transportation options, whether booking a flight, train, or bus or coordinating a carpool with fellow students heading in the same direction. Securing your travel plans in advance can ensure a stress-free journey home.
2. Pack strategically: When packing for your trip home, be mindful of what you will need. Consider the weather, the duration of your stay, and any specific events or activities you have planned. Aim to pack light, bringing only essential items to avoid carrying heavy suitcases. If possible, ship any bulky items or winter gear ahead of time to minimize luggage weight. Remember to take your valuables with you as well.
3. Communicate and coordinate with family and friends: Before heading home, communicate your arrival and departure details to your family and friends. Let them know your travel plans and any changes that may arise. Coordinate with them regarding family gatherings, celebrations, or outings you'd like to participate in during your stay. Clear communication will help ensure a smooth transition into the holiday festivities.
4. Make a list of priorities: With limited time at home, it's essential to prioritize your activities and commitments. Make a list of the things you'd like to accomplish or experience while you are home, whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, reconnecting with old friends, or engaging in hobbies you've missed. A clear list will help you make the most of your break and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
5. Relax and recharge: While it's essential to make the most of your time at home, remember the true purpose of the holiday break: to relax and recharge. Take this time to unwind, catch up on sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's curling up with a good book, taking long walks in nature, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, prioritize self-care during your break.
6. Stay productive: While relaxation is crucial, it's also beneficial to maintain some level of productivity during the break. Use this time to catch up on academic work, review course materials, or get a head start on upcoming assignments. Dedicating a few hours each day to academic tasks can alleviate stress and ensure a smoother transition back to campus life.
7. Reflect and set goals: The holiday break is an ideal time for self-reflection. Take a step back and evaluate the past semester. Consider your achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. Use this evaluation to set realistic goals for the upcoming semester. Setting academic, personal, or professional goals will give you direction and motivation as you enter the new semester.

 

Bottomline

Traveling home for the holiday break while living on campus requires careful planning and organization. By booking travel in advance, packing strategically, communicating with family and friends, prioritizing activities, relaxing and recharging, and staying productive, you can make the most of your time at home. Remember, this break is an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, rest, and return to campus with renewed energy and focus for the upcoming semester. Remember, this break is an opportunity for rest, self-improvement, and creating lasting memories.

 

 

 

Go green in style, watch Cira transform her room with amazing items from Goodwill, and learn how to revamp your new space with sustainable decor.