Today's Update: Thursday, October 3, 2024

October 3, 2024

Dear Student Life team,  

Fall Break is coming up next week, October 10-11. I’m already hearing from students who are very eager for the time away from the classroom, and to be honest, we are all probably just as ready for the break as they are!  

Fall Break is an excellent opportunity to pause and take a deep breath. It gives us a little space during an otherwise busy season to reflect, get to some of the projects that have been mounting, take advantage of the quieter campus environment and maybe even take some time for our own, personal well-being.  
 
I’ll do what I can to help. I’m extending our usual meeting-free Fridays to include both days of Fall Break, so please do your best not to schedule non-critical meetings those two days.  

If you have extra time over those two days, I encourage you to look into the university's Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA). To support health and well-being, Ohio State offers eligible employees the option of using LSA to reimburse personal expenses related to health, fitness, family, emotional and social wellness. Purchase a good book, a podcast, concert tickets or tickets to see a comedian or show, some running shoes, a massage, meditation apps – whatever will help you to support your mental health and well-being. The LSA reimburses you up to $125 quarterly for an eligible service or expense. You don’t need to enroll. 

We’re halfway through the semester. That’s a good reason to celebrate and do something nice for yourself. It’s a Scarlet and Great time to make sure you are supporting your well-being.  

  

Melissa S. Shivers, PhD 
Senior Vice President for Student Life  
The Ohio State University