As part of the UC Guidance and Counseling Office’s celebration of Guidance Month, the office had hosted a series of impactful activities aimed at supporting students’ mental well-being, providing outlets for stress relief, and fostering community connections. These events, including the Stress Buster Zone, Yellow Corner, and Swap Til You Drop, together created a vibrant and supportive environment for students of all backgrounds.
The month kicked off with the Stress Buster Zone, a therapeutic and reflective activity designed to help students manage stress. Held every Wednesday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the G303 Psychological Testing Unit, this initiative was launched during the 2024 Guidance Month celebration under the theme “Smash Your Stress Away in a Safe Way.” A total of 42 students registered for the event.
The Stress Buster Zone allowed participants to release their emotions in a safe and controlled setting. This activity not only helped participants feel better in the moment but also equipped them with practical tools for managing stress moving forward.
Following the Stress Buster Zone, the Yellow Corner offered a consistent space for relaxation and self-care throughout the month of May. Located within the UC Guidance and Counseling Office, the Yellow Corner was open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, which provided students with resources to manage academic and personal challenges.
The space featured a variety of activities and materials, including inspirational quotes, interactive games like chess and Scrabble, self-help books, and free brewed coffee. The aim was to create an environment that encouraged relaxation, reflection, and mindfulness. The Yellow Corner was designed to appeal to students from all year levels, offering them practical coping mechanisms while fostering a sense of community. Post-activity evaluation revealed overwhelmingly positive responses from 55 individuals out of over 260 participants which highlighted the welcoming atmosphere and valuable resources.
As May progressed, the Swap Til You Drop event emerged as a highlight of the month. This unique swap party, organized in collaboration with Sumikom, an LGBTQIA+ community club, which took place from May 16-18 and was extended throughout the entire month. The event encouraged students to take what they needed and donate items they no longer used, promoting a sense of community and generosity. The booth saw overwhelming engagement drawing over 102 participants. The event was not only a fun and unique way for students to exchange items, but it also contributed to a larger cause, with remaining items being donated.
The month-long series of activities at the UC Guidance and Counseling Office provided students with various ways to manage stress, build connections, and give back to the community. From therapeutic outlets like the Stress Buster Zone to the interactive and relaxing Yellow Corner and the charitable spirit of Swap Til You Drop, these events showcased the importance of mental health support and community-building on campus.
The success of these programs, as reflected in the positive feedback from participants, highlighted the UC GCO’s role in promoting a safe and supportive environment for students. Moving forward, the relationships and connections fostered during these events will continue to strengthen the sense of community and well-being within the university.
