ISP MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

The #1 Resource for International Students at SRJC

Basic needs icons
The Basic Needs Edition
Welcome back to school! We all know that these are unprecedented times, and students are facing greater challenges than ever before.

In this special edition of the ISP Monthly Newsletter, we want to talk about basic needs. These include food, water, clothing, and shelter, and are essential for student success! At SRJC, we believe things like transportation, health, and support are also basic student needs.
If you require help accessing any basic needs, contact ISP or the Student Resource Center. Check out some additional basic needs resources below!
Health Insurance: If you have health concerns, GeoBlue has you covered! While SRJC remains closed to the public, you can use your F-1 health insurance to visit an off-campus healthcare provider. SRJC’s Student Health Services is a great place to start - they can provide a referral for off-campus healthcare. Watch our F-1 Health Insurance Webinar or visit our website for more info!
Housing: We received over 30 responses to our COVID-19 ISP Feedback Form, and we thank you! Some of you requested more support with student housing, and we hear you. On-campus dormitories are currently under construction but won’t be available until Fall 2023. Until then, check out or Housing Guide or contact Teresa Tope for assistance.
Financial Resources: COVID-19 has tremendously impacted the world economy, and many students and their families are struggling financially. However, SRJC is here to help! Your enrollment gives you access to Emergency Grant Funding (see Option 2), dozens of Scholarships, and Student Employment! We also have payment plans available for your tuition fees.
Food: SRJC is partnered with the Redwood Empire Food Bank to ensure that all students have access to healthy food staples and fresh produce throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, visit the SRJC food resources website to have access to free food!
The Mental Health All-Stars
We all know that mental health is critical for student success and overall well-being. Read more about the Mental Health All-Stars who can help you understand and improve your mental health!
CREATIVE OUTLET
According to Forbes, creative expression not only improves mental health, but also boosts brain function and physical health! If you are feeling down, try a creative activity like drawing, painting, cooking, or crafting. You'll feel better in no time!
EXERCISE
We all know that exercise is important for physical health and long life, but did you know that the endorphins can actually boost your mood? While gyms are closed, you can still exercise at home, or join an outdoor exercise class! Anytime Fitness has great affordable classes in Santa Rosa - check out their Instagram page for more information.
ROUTINE
Do you have any routines? Something simple like washing your face in the morning, taking a walk after lunch, or reading a book before bed, can have a huge effect on improving your mood. Routines help us feel focused, grounded, and connected to reality. Try starting with something small.
SLEEP
Waking up in a bad mood after a poor night's sleep can ruin our whole day. Even worse, Harvard says that sleep problems can lead to serious mental health issues, like depression, ADHD, and anxiety. To improve your sleep, try limiting screen time before bed, or use meditation or breathing techniques.
MEDITATION
Have you ever tried emptying your mind of all thoughts? Do you struggle with stress, anxiety, or a lack of focus? Meditation has been around for thousands of years and offers numerous health benefits. Today, there are many apps offering guided meditation, sleep stories, and other practices to help calm your mind. Try one today!
SOCIAL ACTIVITY
In these unprecedent times, it is more difficult than ever to remain socially engaged. However, your peers are here to help you! Check out the Club List to connect virtually with like-minded students and find your community at SRJC.
HEALTHY DIET
Did you know that skipping meals or eating unhealthy foods can affect your brain's function? Harvard also says that a clean diet can improve your mood. You can access healthy foods through the SRJC food resources website mentioned earlier in this newsletter.
LOVE
Did you know that love has positive mental health benefits? Love can make you happy, ease anxiety, make you take better care of yourself, reduce stress, and even help you live longer. If you aren't in a romantic relationship right now, think about the love you have for your friends and family. Love is love!
SUN & AIR
Getting out of the house and breathing fresh air is another way to ensure a healthy mind. Looking for safe outdoor activities? Find a drive-in movie theater, take a (masked) walk in a local park, or drive along the coast with the windows down!
HUMOR
Do you know that smiling reduces blood pressure? While it can be difficult to find a reason to smile in these difficult times, this Instagram page is sure to put a smile on your face :)
THERAPY
When all else fails, or even before it fails, try talking to someone about your feelings. You can feel incredibly unburdened once you say something out loud that you've never said to anyone before. Fortunately, SRJC's Student Psychological Services office has increased its staff to provide therapy to more students! Your therapy sessions are 100% confidential.

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