I am writing to you with great anticipation as we near the beginning of the fall
semester. For me, this doesn’t feel like just any new school year, but one that
is filled with expectations and excitement following a very challenging year for
most. While I am experiencing a lot of gratitude for the coming semester due to
being able to meet students in person once again, I am writing to you from the
Morgantown campus where we are experiencing a lot of 90-degree, high humidity days
(my fan is currently on its highest setting!). When deciding on the topic for this
month’s
Dietitian Dish, the topic felt like a no brainer. With many of you enjoying
in-person activities again, discussing how to fuel your body for summer activities
and staying hydrated in the heat is important.
It’s good to be back with another Dietitian Dish post and have a chance to connect
with Mountaineer family members that might be joining us from locations around
the world this summer. When thinking about what I wanted to share with my Mountaineers
entering the summer season (depending on where you're located, that is) I wanted
to be intentional about the topic I shared. I know I’m not alone when I say that
right now, so much of what I see and hear on social media, the news and discussions
among families is related to monitoring food consumption for that “summer body." I want to first acknowledge that thinking about vacations, new summer clothes and
fun outings can be drenched in privilege, and while many do not have the option
to do so, my hope is that this post can speak to everyone!
I hope all of you are reading this as you decompress and enjoy some relaxation with
friends and family after what I can imagine was a long and challenging semester.
While I’m sure there were fun memories, laughs and great food over these last several
months (physically-distanced, of course), I think it’s important to have an honest
conversation about a topic that has impacted many of us (myself included).
That topic is mental health.
Hey Mountaineers! I don’t know about you, but this last month flew by! With the semester
coming to a close (due dates and finals looming...deep breath!), I imagine you
feel the same way, too. I know how important this time is for you to focus on your
academic success, but I wanted to chat about something pretty important this month.
So, I hope during a study break or your daily walk to get some fresh air, you can
take some time to help me spread the word about a topic that not only impacts you
and me, but people all around the world. That topic is food sustainability.