Mental Health Days

The semester is wrapping up and students may have several exams, presentations, and projects to complete. Due to limited time until the semester ends, students who take a mental health day (MHD) through the remainder of this school year may be unable to reschedule assessments, presentations, or makeup work. 

While students can still use their MHDs, we ask that parents or guardians have conversations with their student(s) about being mindful that they may be unable to make up for anything missed. Planning out and organizing schedules is highly encouraged. 

Friendly Reminder: Counselors can not approve a counselor-excused absence if a student has a test, quiz, and/or presentation in class. 

IMSA Impact Maker

This week's IMSA Impact Maker is Mitzi Morales, Resident Counselor for 1502 B Wing. Mitzi consistently demonstrates resilience and grace, no matter the challenge. She always steps up without hesitation, whether adapting to new responsibilities or handling unexpected situations. In addition to her primary responsibilities as an RC, Mitzi constantly goes above and beyond, taking on new initiatives without being asked. Her enthusiasm and proactive approach make Mitzi a valued member of the Res Life Team.



What truly sets Mitzi apart is her unique ability to connect with students. She ensures that every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Her genuine care and understanding have made her a trusted mentor, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Every Bit of Encouragement Helps

I've had the delight of delivering holiday cheer messages this past week to our students, faculty, staff, and community members. I just want to offer my gratitude to those of you who completed them. If you still have that intention, please complete this form by the end of the week.

Sometimes, our students or colleagues may not share that they are struggling or stressed. However, it's natural at this time of year, as we are trying our best to close out the semester on a positive note. You should know that messages or encouragement really leave an impact. Whether you send them through our notes or engage someone directly, they leave a lasting impression of your care and support. Thank you for making a difference, and have a joyful and restful winter break.

Rush Copley Visit

Students from the Medical Society and Med4Minorities Club visited Rush Copley Hospital last week. Students toured the hospital and attended a special panel discussion with doctors and hospital leaders, gaining valuable insights into various healthcare careers and the day-to-day life of a physician.

College Admissions Orientation

For Parents and Guardians of Juniors

Tonight!

December 17

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Via Zoom

Passcode: 822504

Exploring the

US Naval Academy

with Diego Montes '23

If you missed last week's webinar, and have an interest in applying to the U.S. Naval Academy, watch the event recording. Hear directly from an IMSA alumnus as he shares his experience as a current student.

Text Link

Increasing Positive Self-Talk

Self-talk is something that we often engage in, but it tends to be more negative than positive. Our self-talk has a great influence on us. It can affect us negatively when our minds race when we are stressed, or positively when we encourage ourselves to do well on an exam. Having positive self-talk is more beneficial, so here are some tips to work on increasing or maintaining positive self-talk:

• Identify negative self-talk traps – Are there certain scenarios that may increase negative self-talk or self-doubt? If you are aware of certain scenarios, you can better prepare for how you could maintain more positive self-talk.
• Practice positive affirmations – Giving yourself words of encouragement can help redirect some of your negative thoughts and self-talk. Something as easy as writing a small positive reminder for yourself to see every day can go a long way.
• Check in with your feelings - The first step in being able to change your self-talk is noticing it in the first place. When you notice that your self-talk is becoming more negative, stop and take a second. Try to figure out what is making you think more negatively, and how you can change it.

Student Medications Over Break

All student medications will be sent home over Winter Break (including discontinued medications). There is no need for parents, guardians, or students to make a formal request to the Health Office. 

Parents and guardians can pick up student medications from the Health Office before 3:00 p.m. when they pick up their student for the break, or they can pick them up from the RC Office after 3:00 p.m. Students riding the downstate bus will receive their medications as they board the bus.

Please return all medication bottles to the health office, as they are used to send medications to the halls on nights and weekends.

When sending medications back to campus, please complete all necessary paperwork, which can be found on the Health Services page under "Forms" on the right sidebar.

• The Authorization Form for Prescription Medications gives the IMSA health office permission to administer medication(s) to your student. Complete this form for new medications or dosage changes. This form must include signatures from the prescribing physician, parent, and student.
• The Prescription Medication Drop-Off Receipt form must be completed each time a prescription medication is brought onto campus for student administration. 

If your student goes home frequently, please remember to keep a supply of medications at home.

If you have any questions about medications, please reach out to the Health Office at nurse@imsa.edu.