Nov. 14, 2023

Welcome to week 12! 

You are doing amazing! Next week is fall break – it is only a two-day week! Can you see the finish line from here? I can see it and it is coming up fast. After next week there are only two weeks of classes. If you are behind a bit here or there, you will have a great opportunity to catch up during the break.

However, be careful. Now is the season of distractions; stay focused. The holidays are a wonderful season of gathering with good food, family and friends. The holidays can also be super stressful. Family and financial stresses often surface or are brought into the foreground this time of year. Keep your long-term goals for yourself and your loved ones on your mind as you navigate this busy but also demanding season. Take care of yourself.

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Talk to someone. Watch one of the many holiday movies that help us laugh and cry at the joys and absurdities of the season. Reach out to ORCA; or the Student Health and Counseling Center. The good people in these offices have devoted their schooling and careers to helping us along our collective journey.

If you have everything well in hand, that’s great. Use some of your wisdom and energy to help care for your fellow travelers. That’s at least a portion of the true spirit of the season.

Things to do:

Open registration for spring classes began yesterday! If you haven’t already seen your advisor or made an appointment – do so today! Get your classes locked in for the spring semester as soon as possible. It will feel good to get this settled, it will help you to feel more relaxed over the holidays and make your return in January more peaceful. 

Really. See your advisor. Register for classes. Today.

Pop Con starts this Thursday evening with Pop Trivia in Arctic Java from 7-9 p.m. There are many exciting events throughout the weekend. Check it out! 

Get outside. Wherever you are, from Alaska to Arkansas, get outside and away from your computer, from your classes, from your roommate, from your job, from everything. Get outside and move your body and take a moment to enjoy the miracle of fresh air, natural light (or darkness), and natural skies. 

Have a great 12th week of classes.

I offer a lot of advice, please share your thoughts about what I or we can do better, or what you love about UAF, with me: obguthrie@alaska.edu.

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