By: Taya Stewart

Staff-Writer

If you are looking for a way to take a break from your studies or would like a chance to meet some new people and socialize, the Student Social Work Association is holding several events you might be interested in.

One of these is a new initiative called “Beating the Winter Blues,” which started Feb 6. On Mondays, they will hold “vent sessions” at 1 p.m. in Fireside, and they will meet in Wiekamp Hall on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. for mental health walks. Don’t let the winter blues get to you – connect on a deeper level.

Another event, “Coffee Time” at Heritage meeting house, is also taking place at 711 West McKinley Ave Mishawaka from 10 to 11 a.m. Feb. 22. If coffee is not your forte, join their game night located in the SAC game room by the SubConnect on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. for a chance to play, meet and connect with like minded students.

“They’re informal events to meet and just talk or play with each other, without any pressure or obligations,” President Fernanda Piersanti said. “My goal for this year is to create some new events focused on improving the students’ mental health and helping them go through college with joyful memories and less pressure and perfectionism.”

SSWA hosts these events for students knowing how difficult this time of year is. They are committed to providing students with the support they need by providing physical, physiological and emotional outlets. The purpose of these events is to allow students to feel connected, supported and engaged.

“I have connected with some very compassionate, good-humored students through SSWA events. I am imbued with hope for a just and supportive future,” Vice President Anna Roberts said. “SSWA students are dedicated to this future and take actions daily with this goal in mind. I’m really inspired by the students I meet in our events.”

SSWA events are open to all students and the community, regardless of their major or a connection to social work.

For more information about volunteer opportunities and other events, keep up with the SSWA on Instagram @southbend.sswa.