Aloha Yellow Jackets,

Belated wishes for a healthy and happy 2025! And for those of you who observe it, happy Lunar New Year (Year of the Snake)! I hope the first weeks of the new term have been going well. The bouts of winter weather certainly gave us an opportunity for fun and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of your snow creations and winter recreational activities – done only how Yellow Jackets can do! 

The start of a new year offers an opportunity for reflection and mindfulness. Change and transition are inevitable aspects of life and serve as catalysts for hope and growth, even as they may sometimes cause anxiety or stress – which are normal responses to change. Change may also be cause for anticipation, excitement and joy.

The name "January" is derived from Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions. Janus is often depicted with two faces: one looking back in time and the other gazing forward to what lies ahead. With the knowledge gained from the past, January invites us to set our sights on the future. This bi-dimensional perspective encourages us to plan, dream, and set intentions that will guide us through the year ahead, even as we remember and honor where we have come from. One can apply lessons learned from prior mistakes and successes to enhance and maximize choices and pathways still to come.

I know for myself, after reading this article from The Conversation about the importance of social connection, I considered my past habits and (re)committed to some new, more effective ones to promote my own emotional, spiritual and social wellness. The article considers the impacts of social disconnection and offers suggestions for how individuals and communities can promote more authentic relationships and meaningful social networks.

As we journey ahead after this first month of the year, let's remember the wisdom of Janus. By looking back with gratitude and gazing forward with hope, we can make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead. As a reminder, there are resources available across campus to assist and support you with your curricular and cocurricular pursuits. Here's to a year filled with growth, reflection, and new beginnings.

Go Jackets!