Your Health Check-In: A Smart Start to the Semester

Whether you’re returning to campus or arriving for your very first semester, college is an exciting transition and will be a busy one. Between classes, jobs, activities, and social life, it’s easy to put your health on the back burner. Taking a few minutes now to think about your personal health can help you stay focused, energized, and resilient all semester long.

Get Ahead on Preventive Care

Before the semester ramps up, make sure you’re up to date on required and recommended immunizations and have copies of important health records. If you take prescription medications, plan ahead for refills and know how to access a pharmacy near campus. It’s also a good idea to schedule routine checkups early, before your calendar fills up.

Know Your Campus Health Resources

Florida Atlantic offers many on-campus health services including acute and primary care, counseling, wellness programs, and after-hours support. Familiarize yourself with where the clinic is, how to make an appointment, and what services are included in your student fees. Knowing where to go before you need care can save time and stress later.

Protect Your Mental Health

College life brings new pressures including academic expectations, social changes, and sometimes being far from home. Pay attention to your mental and emotional well-being. Build healthy routines, stay connected with supportive people, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or persistently down. Reaching out early is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Build Healthy Daily Habits

Sleep, nutrition, hydration, and physical activity matter more than you might think. Aim for consistent sleep, balanced meals, and movement you enjoy. These habits support concentration, mood, and immune health and they’re often the first to slip when stress increases.

Think About Safety and Self-Care

Know how to take care of yourself in social situations. This includes understanding consent, practicing safe sex, using alcohol responsibly (or not at all), and looking out for friends. Trust your instincts and know where to turn for help if something doesn’t feel right.

Plan for the Unexpected

Illness, injuries, and stress can happen at any time. Keep emergency contacts updated, carry your insurance information, and know what to do if you get sick during the semester. A little preparation can make a big difference.

College is about learning and growing and taking care of your health is part of that journey. Starting the semester with awareness and intention sets you up not just to get through college, but to thrive in it.

Florida Atlantic’s Director of Student Health Services, Tom Cleare, encourages students to utilize the convenient services available to all students. “Florida Atlantic has many services on campus and others available through telehealth to help keep you healthy. Services are provided through the Student Health Clinic, Counseling and Psychological Services, Owls Care Health Promotion, and Campus Recreation.”

Students can easily access services through the MyFAU App through one of the “Quick Links” for Health & Wellness, Student Health Services, and Campus Recreation.