Student Affairs E-newsletter: April 16, 2020

Author: Kate Morgan

Virtual Support, Resources, and Programming

Health and Wellness Resources

University Counseling Center (UCC)
The UCC’s tele-mental health services are now available to students who live in the US in states where temporary changes allow out-of-state mental health providers to provide services across state lines. Every state regulates mental health services differently. Please check the UCC website to determine if you reside in a state where the UCC is able to offer tele-therapy services. 

Regardless of where you live, the UCC is available to provide phone consultations for all students. Please contact the UCC at 574-631-7336 if you would like to schedule a phone consultation with one of our staff members. Additionally, you can call the UCC HELPLINE (574-631-TALK) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

The McDonald Center for Student Well-Being (McWell)
As students continue to adjust to online education and interactions, one challenge is staying productive and motivated. By taking a few intentional moments to think through tasks and priorities, while also making space for self-compassion and celebrations, we can work to boost our productivity and motivation. Download the How to Be Productive handout for guidance on ways to begin this process for yourself. Additionally, students are invited to join McWell next Wednesday, April 22, at 4 p.m. for a live interactive workshop on time management and productivity. Sign up here to receive the Zoom link if you are interested. 

Visit the McWell website for additional well-being resources, and follow McWell @McWellND. 

Faith Resources

Grief Support
During this unprecedented time, students may experience grief associated with the death of a loved one due to COVID-19. Please know members of Campus Ministry's pastoral care team are ready and available to provide support. If you would like to speak with a campus minister or learn more about grief resources, please email Tami Schmitz.

Need to Talk
As we approach the end of the semester, there are likely a variety of things weighing on your mind and heart. You may want to share how you are dealing with the unknown, the losses big and small, or wondering whether the pandemic is affecting your relationships and how to navigate this time spiritually. Whatever needs attention, please know a campus minister is available to listen. Either set up a time to video chat or call (574) 631-8505 Monday through Friday from 1 to 7 p.m.

Podcast mini-series: "Points of Connection"
Campus Ministry’s new podcast, “Points of Connection” is an intentional attempt to discuss things that don't seem to go together within the context of faith.

On the debut episode, we discuss the tension between solitude and community brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. Fr. Pete McCormick, C.S.C., joins us to talk about his experiences with solitude and how it informs his sense of community and how to love.

“Points of Connection” is available tomorrow, Friday, April 17, wherever you get your podcasts. Simply search “Points of Connection” and enjoy. 

The University of Notre Dame Folk Choir Releases “Catch the Spirit”
During this uncertain time of isolation and separation, the Notre Dame Folk Choir has announced the early release of "Catch the Spirit," an exploration of sacred music from the African American and East African traditions. 

Available tomorrow, Friday, April 17, on all major streaming platforms, the album’s early release echoes the call from Notre Dame President Fr. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., to “see the diverse gifts and backgrounds of people as enriching, not dividing... to join together to build a community in which all are included and respected, and each of us contributes to the common good.”

For more information, including the album’s creation, artistic collaborators, and related images and videos, please visit the Folk Choir website

Career Development

One-on-One Counseling Appointments
Individual appointments with career counselors are available via Zoom. Schedule an appointment on Handshake.

Online Workshops
A variety of online events and workshops are being offered each week. Events include informational sessions hosted by employers in addition to sessions on Leveraging LinkedIn, Preparing for an Interview, Networking with Alumni, and more. All upcoming opportunities are available on Handshake.

Alumni Insights
The inaugural Alumni Insight Series features one-hour testimonials from alumni who share their personal and professional stories about navigating life beyond Notre Dame. All class levels and majors are welcome to virtually attend. View speakers and event details on Handshake.

Gender Relations Center

The Gender Relations Center (GRC) is currently recruiting student leaders to join the FIRE Starter team for the 2020-2021 academic year. FIRE Starters are a cohort of student leaders within the GRC focused on Finding Identity, Relationships, and Equality. FIRE Starters engage their peers in open and respectful dialogue to make Notre Dame a more inclusive place that respects the dignity of every member of the community. Over the course of the academic year, teams of FIRE Starters develop their own programs and events to foster open and inclusive dialogue, and develop leadership and facilitation skills. To apply, please visit the GRC website

The Shirt 2020 Video Unveiling

The Shirt Committee will virtually unveil the 32nd iteration of The Shirt through a special video tomorrow, Friday, April 17, at 6 p.m. on The Shirt ND Facebook page, Twitter (@theshirtND), Instagram (@theshirtnd), and YouTube accounts. The Shirt will be available for purchase on the Hammes online bookstore following the unveiling. 

This year’s announcement shows that nothing can dampen the unwavering spirit of Fighting Irish fans or our optimism for another fantastic football season this fall. Proceeds from sales benefit student clubs and organizations, The Shirt Charity Fund, and The Student Experience Fund, which ensures all students have access to the full Notre Dame experience.