“After taking this elective, I realize that I have the ability to incorporate little habits in my every day life that can boost my well-being exponentially. I never realized how hard I was on myself and this class helped me realize that I had a community of people that may be struggling with the same thing and I can reach out to them. I also learned that prioritizing wellness, building compassion, and practicing empathy doesn’t have to be a big task. They can be little things we remind ourselves of and practice every day or week that can help us in the long run.”

“I gained a deeper understanding of my emotions and thought patterns [and] helped me build self awareness and self compassion. I also learned how to manage stress during busy school life. The course also enhances my ability to empathize with others, foster gratitude, and cultivate a positive mindset that can help me live a more balanced and positive life”

“This elective has taught me how to take better care of myself mentally. I started caring more for my well-being and ensuring that I take care of my physical and mental health. This class has taught me the importance of self-care and to also listen to my body’s wants and needs.”

“I take away the importance of incorporating well-being into my day-to-day life. There are certain strategies that have stuck with me, like box-breathing and eating balanced meals. Also, this class has pushed me to make an active effort to connect with my community and reach out to people.”

“It’s important to take care of your wellbeing in order to be a productive and compassionate community member. There are many simple ways to incorporate wellbeing practices into your life whether through meditation, nutrition, sleep, or physical activity. I am motivated to start prioritizing these practices more in my daily life.”

“I’ve learned that taking care of my own well-being is just as important as caring for others. This elective reminded me that empathy and compassion aren’t just feelings—they are actions that can make a difference in both patient care and daily life. I’ll take away the importance of listening without judgment, being present, and showing kindness, even in small moments. It also taught me that showing compassion to myself helps me stay balanced [to] continue supporting others.”

“I know how to be more compassionate towards myself, as well as others. Seeing my classmates open up made me feel more connected and relatable to them. I will also prioritize making time to do things that make me happy, and spending time with quality people.”