Highlighted Event

Art Open Studio

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Student Wellness Center

Art Open Studio (AOS) is a collaborative, relaxing environment where students can explore artistic expression and build community with their peers.

The space is meant to be fun and informal, allowing students to participate in the monthly theme or use other supplies as they see fit. No art experience is required to take part in AOS. All supplies are available on a first come, first serve basis

This week, we will be making Scratchboard Bookmarks. Just in time for Spring Break, when you may finally have time to crack open that book that's been sitting on your desk for a while now 😜.

Learn More

Closing the Quarter: Let the Break Begin

Finishing Finals and Welcoming the Break😴

By the end of this week, everyone should (hopefully) be free from finals. After all that pent-up stress, how can we truly wind down from the quarter and prioritize rest?

Clean Up Your Space
- Chores may not seem like a direct form of rest, although I do love a good stress-clean 🙂. Either way, even just clearing off your workspace, packing away old assignments, and organizing your desk can help you detach from schoolwork and mentally close out the quarter.
Spend Time with Loved Ones
- You feel that you've been a bit distant or busy over the last couple of weeks, reach out to loved ones or spend some quality time together. While it’s important to give yourself some time alone, it’s also nice to reconnect. If you're a grad or professional student, consider our Better Together program if you are looking to connect with fellow UChicago students.
Give Your Brain a Break
- You’ve probably spent a lot of time in front of a computer or reading textbooks lately, so stepping away from work is an important way to rest. Our Mindfulness Meditation course registration is open for the Spring 2026 quarter, and it is a great way to keep your brain active and rest at the same time!
Sleep!!!
- If you’ve been following the newsletter for a while, you probably know that we prioritize sleep in most issues. If you're looking to improve your sleep, registration is now open for Refresh Sleep for the Spring 2026 quarter!

A Conversation with Mike

Meet Someone from Our Leadership Team !

Mike has served in several roles within Student Wellness over the years. He currently serves as the Director of Mental Health Services, a position he has held since 2024. Earlier in his career, he worked as a staff psychologist and also completed part of his professional training at Student Wellness from 2008 to 2011.

UChicago isn’t the only Chicago campus where Mike has made an impact. In 2016, he also served as the Director of Counseling Services at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

One of Mike’s favorite parts of his work is supporting and facilitating the many initiatives happening at Student Wellness and having the opportunity to connect with students. With finals week here, Mike encourages students to prioritize rest afterward and make time to get some good sleep. He also suggests using the break as a chance to step off campus, explore the city, and experience everything Chicago has to offer. Outside of work, Mike is also a musician who currently produces, writes, and performs his own music

Learn more about Mike and the Student Wellness team below!

Learn More About Our Leadership Team!

Mike Pietrus, PsyD

Director of Mental Health Services

BS, Psychology and Philosophy with a Certificate in Integrated Liberal Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison; PsyD, Clinical Psychology, The Chicago School; Clinical Internship, University of Chicago, Student Counseling and Resource Service

Activity of the Week

How Good is Your Travel Knowledge?

With Spring Break just around the corner and freedom in sight, I’m sure many of you have some well-deserved relaxation planned, whether that means soaking up the sun on a beach or enjoying seven straight days in your bed (personally, I’ll be choosing the second option).

This quiz is here to test your worldly knowledge! If you’re planning to travel, it never hurts to know a little about where you’re headed. Click below to see if your knowledge will take you far! 🌍✈️

Take the Quiz!

Video of the Week

Spring Break Reset: Why Rest Deserves a Spot on Your Schedule 📆

This video explores the idea that rest is often frowned upon in our society. There is a common belief that if every waking moment is not pushing you toward a goal, then it is somehow wasted. In reality, though, rest is essential, especially after long periods of constant work, like this past quarter.

Rest is more than just doing nothing; it is about engaging in something that makes you feel grounded, human, and more connected to yourself. Most importantly, they encourage letting go of the guilt that often accompanies rest. Once finals are over, allow yourself to fully enjoy the break. You have earned it!

Watch the Video