Wellness Week is made possible through the Mitchell Rosen Fund, created in the memory of a 24-year-old Miami Law student who took his own life in 1986. "When I became Dean of Students, I thought it'd be important to teach students healthy coping skills while in law school," Janet E. Stearns said.
The fund, which had been used for other purposes before Stearns' arrival, was reallocated. "I wanted those funds to support our proactive efforts to support the students and their efforts to address the stress of law school," she said.
As mid-term exams approach, Fellows want to remind students that there are ways to effectively handle stress. "You can become so intense that it's actually counterproductive," said Georgia Vitzileos, a post-graduate fellow and a liaison for the event. She added that it's great to be focused, but that students also need healthy outlets. "Nervous energy doesn't really help you," she said.
Vitzileos pointed out a few Wellness Week events from which students might benefit. They might have already taken part in Sunday morning's Race Judicata, a 5K run and walk through the University of Miami campus, hosted by the Society of Bar and Gavel.
On Monday, students can meet at The Bricks to learn Krav Maga self-defense, led by Professor Mary Anne Franks at lunchtime. Vitzileos said that self defense gives people the mental awareness and physical tools needed to feel safe and confident. "It gives you more freedom to do what you want to do," she said. Following the session, Jamba Juice will be giving away 800 smoothies.
On Tuesday, students can observe how to make healthy and affordable meals that are easy to store and pack for lunch throughout the week. On Thursday, the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund will host pet-a-puppy for students who want to cuddle up with an adorable pooch.
The entire week will provide an array of activities to cater to the individual's mental, spiritual and physical needs. "It's really important to be balanced as a person no matter what you endeavor in life," Vitzileos said, "and to make sure you develop yourself in many different ways while you're pursing your goals"
The Fifth Annual Wellness Week Begins at Miami Law
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL 33124
305-284-2211