Feb. 14, 2023

Week 5! Valentine's Day!                                                        Daylight 8:25:20

The fifth week of the semester is upon us!

As we start to close the book on the first third of the term, now is a good time to pause and take stock. How are you doing? Are you settled into the rhythm of your classes and are you accomplishing the goals you hoped to achieve? Have you established the routines and patterns that will lead you to your desired success? Now is an excellent time to check yourself and reset if necessary. Be honest. Be your own coach. Mid-terms are just around the corner. It is hard to believe that we are already one-third of the way through the semester. Time is flying!

Today, however, is special. It is extra special not only because we are cracking into Week 5, but also because it's Valentine's Day. It is a good day to appreciate and celebrate the people in our lives who bring us joy, the people who give of themselves to us, the people or furry creatures who make a difference in our lives. Whether it's a significant other, a pet, a close friend, or a family member, take a moment to let them know that you appreciate them and the joy they bring to your life. 

Speaking of being thankful for those who bring us joy, take a moment to appreciate those in your UAF community who make a difference for you. Is it a fellow student or a group of students? Does a faculty or staff member make UAF a more enjoyable place of learning and growth for you? Take a moment to appreciate that special someone who enhances joy in your life at UAF. 

In fact, this is a good moment to make a mental note to continue to support and encourage those around you here in our community. As we move forward into the last two-thirds of the semester, remember that you are part of a larger group of learners, and we are all here to help each other succeed and collectively experience the joy of learning.

Our community is what we make it and the joy we find is for us to create and share. Happy Valentine's Day to you! 

Things to do:

• Our annual Show your love campaign is underway! We’d love to hear your story!

• You have until tomorrow, Feb.15, at 11:59 p.m. to submit your application for scholarships for the 2023-2024 academic year. There are more scholarships than you can imagine (over 400, in fact). Apply now!

• Graduation Fair, Feb. 22 from noon to 3 p.m. for students eligible to graduate this year in the Wood Center ballroom.

  • Enjoy hamburger sliders and tater tots while you learn about the spring commencement ceremony taking place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, at the Carlson Center.

  • There will be a check-in at the fair for students who may be eligible to graduate this year. Please respond by Feb. 15 to let us know you’ll be there.

  • Find out more about this year’s ceremony.

    • • Check the status of your graduation application.

      • Ask about honors designations.

      • Place your order. Ensure you have your cap, gown and tassel in time for the big day.

      • Connect with Alumni Relations. Learn more about your Nanook Network.

      • Meet with a career advisor. Find out how to land your dream job. 

      • Explore your options with the UAF Graduate School.

      • Register for Lavender Graduation and the First-Gen Cording Ceremony.

      • Pick up a red sash if you are an Alaska Native or Indigenous graduate.

      • Address your class. Apply to be a 2023 student commencement speaker.

      • Thank someone who inspired you. Send them a thank-you note on the spot. 

      • Enter to win. Door prizes include a professional photo and a photo package.

• For more information or to request an accommodation, email uaf-commencement-team@alaska.edu.

What or who is bringing you joy? Let me know at obguthrie@alaska.edu.

— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management.