Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Wellness

On the campus of Avila University, there are over 50 clubs and organizations. One of them in particular is the Wellness Organization, directed by Avila University’s Registered Nurse, Carol Frevert. 
Carol Frevert, Regestered Nurse and Wellness directer, at Avila University.
Photo by: Brittany Watson
The main focus of this organization is to engage students at Avila University in the promotion of wellness. This includes enhancing health, and developing healthy choices, mentally and physically. Within the organization there are many programs that are offered to expand these qualities, such as, wellness forums, classes, activities, and events on campus and locally.
A behind the scenes look at Carol Frevert's nursing station.
Photo by: Brittany Watson
The Wellness Organization participates strongly in working with other clubs and organizations, departments, and schools. This is to expand the knowledge of these groups and to provide many activities for students on campus. One organization Wellness teams up with is, PEACH, Peers Educating Avila about Counseling and Health. The main idea of these two organizations is to present a comprehensive outlook for the community of the school.
Being Health Awareness month, I got the chance to meet with Nurse Carol to discuss the top five, and most important ways to stay well. The first way is rest. Many times students don’t receive enough sleep causing their body to shut down. Performance in class can become poor and attention spans can be altered tremendously.  The second way is eating well. If students are giving their bodies the proper nutrients and cutting back on junk foods, their immune systems can stay strong, preventing weight gain and increasing performance. The third way is drinking lots of water. It is extremely important to stay hydrated. Many times dehydration can lead to other serious issues including, changes in the body, kidney failure and life threatening issues.
Avila University helps celebrate April's Health Awareness Month!
Photo by: Brittany Watson
The forth way is washing your hands. Nowadays there are countless bacteria’s and diseases. Not washing your hands can lead to different infections, sicknesses, and outbreaks. Washing your hands will not only keep you healthy and safe, but also the people at Avila University. And the fifth way is seeking help if you’re sick. Many times students will put off a cold or a stomach ache and ignoring your body can make it worse. It is so important to treat the first signs of sicknesses. This will prevent feeling terrible and allowing the sickness to become worse.


“Health Services provides health care, health education, and referrals to other resources which can help students deal with illnesses and injuries, maintain physical health, and improve their health” Carol Frevert, RN

Senior Night






Senior dancers, Erin Penney, Brittany Watson, and Lauren Guthrie.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson
During halftime of the Avila University men’s basketball game on, February 25th, Senior Night took place. Senior Night is recognition for students who have completed four years as student athletes. This ceremony was a way for the team and school to honor athletes for their hard work, dedication, and many achievements. 





Brittany Watson and father, Jeff Watson, on Senior Night.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson
Several senior athletes were recognized on Senior Night. Each student was introduced separately and a brief biography was given. This included, name, year, major, and plans after college. When announced, athletes were greeted with hugs and kind words, as well as flowers and/or something memorable from the coaches and team.

Out of many, I too was categorized as a senior athlete. Previously, I attended Johnson county community college, where I danced for three years. After receiving my associate’s degree, I transferred to Avila University, and was offered a scholarship in dance. Although I was a new student, it was in fact my last year to participate in dancing for college.

Senior Night was a special night, full of many memories. It was a fun way of closing the year and beginning a new chapter in life. This event brought friends and family together and allowed senior athletes to reflect on the progress of their time in college.


Brittany Watson and mother, Barb Titus, on Senior Night.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson