As the winter weather continues, the University of Wisconsin-Madison welcomes both returning and new students to the spring semester in frigid fashion.
First years this fall enjoyed Wisconsin Welcome events as they learned the campus layout while returning students reacclimated. Returning this winter is no different with a Winter Wisconsin Welcome that not only opens doors for returning students but gives transfers and spring admits opportunities to make connections and meet new people.
Here are a few opportunities beginning this next week to get moving, step outside of comfort zones and celebrate the start of a new semester. More can be found on the UW Events app.
Mindful Meditation
What better way to prepare for the new semester than some mindful meditation? The Nicholas Recreation Center holds a number of Mindful Meditation sessions. With a new year and new challenges ahead, practicing mindfulness can help students to slow down and connect with themselves in order to reset and set themselves up for success. Students can register for these events on the Recreation & Wellbeing website.
Trivia Night(s)
There are a number of opportunities to play trivia on campus with the soonest in the Red Gym Jan. 22 from 5:30-7 p.m. Individuals can bring an already formed team or create a team with new friends on site.
Snowburst Bash
Get loose and enjoy some karaoke, bowling, food samples and more at the Snowburst Bash in Union South Jan. 23 from 6-9 p.m. Students can explore activities throughout the building, whether that be The Sett Rec, Varsity Hall or The Sett Pub, and connect with friends.
Winter Wonderland Skate Night
Outdoor UW will host their Winter Wonderland Skate Night Jan. 24 from 5-7 p.m. at Memorial Union. Come by yourself or bring friends and family to enjoy a cozy campfire, festive music and an atmosphere of warmth and whimsy. Skate rentals are $5 for students and $7 for non-students per hour. Individuals can register through Wisconsin Union, though those not registered may have rental skates available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Winter Carnival
The Hoofers Outdoor Club has once again put together an exciting list of Winter Carnival festivities. Individuals can attend a number of these events from Feb. 5-7. Enjoy a rock n’ roll decades skate night, ice climbing, carriage rides and a chili cookoff at Memorial Union. A list of all Winter Carnival events can be located on the Wisconsin Union website.
While these events may keep spirits high, students can still experience the “winter blues” or the seasonal shift known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Students are encouraged to use University Health Services as they provide a number of resources to help combat this shift.
Common symptoms of SAD include changes in appetite, sleep disruption and low energy. UHS provides resources to help with this shift including drop-in consultations with a UHS mental health provider, group counseling, Uwill and Thrive Online. More information on all of these programs can be found on the UHS website.
