Mental Wellness May: Agenda
Find Your Balance: May the 4th Wellness Mixer
Date: Monday, May 4th, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Graduate Student Success Center (SMSU-South 202)
Join us for Find Your Balance: May the 4th Wellness Mixer, a special graduate student event celebrating connection, creativity, and mental wellness. As part of our May wellness programming, this Star Wars–inspired gathering invites you to unwind, recharge, and connect with fellow graduate students in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Enjoy music, interactive games, themed photo opportunities, and a fun Star Wars–inspired craft activity designed to spark creativity and help you de-stress. Whether you come to meet new people, take a break from your routine, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something here for everyone.
All graduate students are welcome—come as you are, and may the Force (and balance) be with you!
Counseling and Psychological Services Presents: Chasing Sunshine & Self-Compassion
Date: Tuesday, May 5th, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM -1:00 PM
Location: College of Education-213
As the semester winds down and summer begins to unfold, join us for a reflective and uplifting workshop centered on self-love, self-compassion, and resilience. This session is designed to help you navigate transitions with intention—whether you’re finishing finals, stepping into summer plans, or preparing for life after graduation.
We’ll begin with an engaging presentation exploring the foundations of self-love and self-compassion, including insights from frameworks like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and a conversation around common myths that can hold us back from being kinder to ourselves. Together, we’ll also reflect on how these practices support resilience, overall well-being, and maintaining a positive outlook as you move toward your goals.
In the second half, you’ll participate in a guided, creative activity: writing a letter to your future self. This exercise encourages you to acknowledge your current efforts, offer yourself compassion, and set meaningful intentions for the months ahead—reminding yourself that even during stressful times, growth and care can coexist.
Take a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect—because you deserve both sunshine and self-compassion.
Graduate Studies Meet n’ Greet: April Lane
Date: Wednesday, May 6th, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: College of Education-356
Stop by our Graduate Student Resource Open House to meet April Lane, your Graduate Student Resource Specialist! This is a great opportunity to connect, ask questions, and learn more about the support available to you throughout your graduate journey.
April is here to help with navigating program resources, submitting forms and enrollment-related paperwork, and exploring funding opportunities for the upcoming year. Whether you have specific questions or just want to introduce yourself, all graduate students are welcome.
No registration is required—just drop in! Food will be provided, so come by, grab a bite, and get the information you need to stay on track and supported as we head into summer.
Graduate Student Resource Specialist
The Cheech Museum: An Evening in Downtown Riverside
Date: Thursday, May 7th, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture
Take a break from campus and join us for a graduate student outing to downtown Riverside! This is a great opportunity to step away from your routine, explore the local community, and connect with fellow graduate students in a relaxed, social setting.
We’ll start by visiting the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture (The Cheech), where you can enjoy inspiring artwork and a fresh cultural experience. Afterward, we’ll head to the Riverside Food Lab to grab dinner and unwind together with a variety of delicious food options.
Whether you’re looking to meet new people, recharge, or simply de-stress before finals week, this outing offers the perfect mix of culture, connection, and relaxation. Come join us and connect with your fellow graduate students.
Please note that transportation is available via university vans with the Recreation and Wellness Center, but spots are limited, so register quickly if you would like transportation provided. Otherwise, meet us in downtown Riverside for the event!