Permanent link for From Overwhelmed to Balanced: How I Built Emotional Wellness at GVSU. on November 18, 2025

From Overwhelmed to Balanced: How I Built Emotional Wellness at GVSU.

When I first arrived at GVSU, I didn’t fully grasp how important emotional wellness would be in my college experience. GVSU defines emotional wellness as understanding and accepting your emotions while developing healthy ways to cope with challenges. Learning this helped me realize that my time at GVSU isn’t just about academics — it’s about building resilience and balance.

Building Self-Awareness and Self-Acceptance at GVSU

Being at GVSU has pushed me to become more self-aware. Between classes, campus events, and the fast pace of student life, I’ve learned to pause and check in with my feelings. GVSU makes space for this through its wellness initiatives, and that has encouraged me to accept all of my emotions instead of hiding them.

Practicing Self-Care as a GVSU Student

Self-care at GVSU goes beyond relaxing — it’s about routines that support my emotional health while balancing student responsibilities. Whether I’m studying in the Mary Idema Pew Library, walking across the Allendale campus, or winding down after a long day of classes, I try to take care of myself through sleep, journaling, movement, and giving myself grace.

Developing Emotional Agility at GVSU

College life at GVSU can be unpredictable, and that’s where emotional agility comes in. When things don’t go as planned — like exam stress or busy weeks — I use coping skills I’ve learned and strengthened here. Walking the ravines, deep breathing between classes, or talking with friends on campus helps me bounce back and adapt.

Building Social Connections at GVSU

One of the best things about GVSU is the sense of community. I’ve built friendships through classes, student orgs, and campus events, and these connections play a huge role in my emotional wellness. And when I need extra support, GVSU’s University Counseling Center is an invaluable resource that makes me feel supported.

Managing Stress Proactively at GVSU

Stress is part of being a student at GVSU, but I’ve learned to manage it in healthy ways. Whether I’m studying in the library, attending a campus workshop, or using mindfulness resources GVSU provides, I try to stay ahead of stress rather than let it build up. I schedule downtime and use campus spaces — like quiet study rooms or outdoor seating — to recharge.

Expressing My Emotions in Healthy Ways at GVSU

GVSU has taught me the importance of healthy communication. Being surrounded by supportive classmates, professors, and staff makes it easier to express what I’m feeling. Talking things out on campus — whether with friends or a counselor — has strengthened my ability to handle difficult emotions.

Finding Purpose at GVSU

GVSU encourages students to find purpose, and that mindset has shaped my emotional wellness. Whether it’s working toward my degree, joining a student organization, or participating in service opportunities, having purpose here helps me stay grounded and motivated, especially on harder days.

Practicing Kindness and Integrity at GVSU

At GVSU, kindness and integrity are part of the culture. I see it in how students support each other and how faculty care about our well-being. Being in this environment motivates me to treat others — and myself — with compassion, which strengthens my emotional health.

Using Wellness Resources at GVSU

GVSU offers so many resources that support emotional wellness: the University Counseling Center, wellness workshops, student orgs focused on mindfulness, and online tools linked through the GVSU health pages. Using these resources has made a huge difference in my well-being and has taught me that seeking support is a sign of strength.

Reflecting and Growing at GVSU

My emotional wellness journey at GVSU is ongoing. Every semester brings new experiences that help me grow and reflect. GVSU has given me the support, space, and tools to develop healthier habits and to become more emotionally resilient — not just for college, but for life.

Categories: General Wellness WIT
Posted by Heather Alberda on Permanent link for From Overwhelmed to Balanced: How I Built Emotional Wellness at GVSU. on November 18, 2025.