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Finding Your Team at Stanford

The quarter is officially in full swing, and it can get quite overwhelming. Midterm season has fallen upon us, with the rest of the quarter still ahead. But, you are not alone in this struggle! Being in college is an opportunity to surround yourself with academics and a support team. Taking an exam requires help from professor lectures, TA sections, and more. Just like an assignment, self-care and balance can also require a team around you. Let's get to building it!

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Finding Your Team

Congratulations! You have officially made it halfway through fall quarter. Give yourself a nice pat on the back, but also consider who you celebrate this achievement with. Who is your support system that helps emphasize the good times and aid the harsh ones?

On Campus Groups

If you are passionate about a particular issue and/or want to have direct involvement with the community, check out Stanford’s student groups. We are trees, but consider this your ocean. There are religious groups, art groups, professional groups, and more. Try not to feel that all of your commitments need to relate to your potential career or professional growth. Tree-t yourself to fun, indulge in your extracurriculars, and meet others who hold the same interest!

Community Centers and Offices

It can be nerve-wracking to reach out to a professional adult staff member, especially if you have never done so. So, ease yourself into it! Find a community center on campus (there are eight of them!), such as the Women’s Community Center or the First Generation and/or Low-Income Student Success Center, and head in during office hours. These spaces are designated to create a safe space for you as an individual and your identity. Walk in to do some homework, talk to the student staff, and see if it’s for you!

Professional Staff

So you’ve joined a student group and visited your community centers, but you’re still struggling a little bit. Mental health is not one size fits all. There are a variety of individuals who can make up your support team, and ultimately all of them want to help you. Consider Well-Being Coaching, CAPS, TimelyCare, and more, especially if you want to discuss non-academic related issues. These staff are trained in providing guidance and support. Remember, you get to choose your team!

Family, Friends, and Loved Ones

Ultimately, finding your team does not have to be complicated. Reach out to your family and loved ones through scheduling phone calls- even consider asking them to check in on you periodically. But also remember, your team is your team; if you do not have the best relationship with your blood family, consider the chosen family or other team members described above. Someone does not have to be related to you to support you!

As the quarter continues, try and reach out to your team. Find a game plan, ask for help, and have fun. Your team should be there for you always, not only when you require extra support. And remember, you are also your own team member. Celebrate your victories as you would uplift a friend. And ultimately, tree-t yourself with kindness!

 

Written by: Chavi Coy, Class of 2026

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Resources

Stanford Resources