In the Loop Newsletter
October 22, 2025
Dear Huskies,
Welcome to Week 5! As we settle into the Seattle fall, midterms are fast approaching. Whether you are getting ready for exams and assignments or adjusting to seasonal changes, this newsletter is full of tips and resources to help you thrive at the UW.
Handling Stress During Midterms
Midterms are an important part of your academic journey, but they do not have to feel overwhelming. The key to success lies in balancing your well-being across multiple dimensions.
Stress Management: Start by knowing your limits—your brain isn’t designed to absorb information nonstop! Consider trying the Pomodoro Technique: study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. (You can an easy-to-use timer online.) Research also shows that getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night is essential for memory and focus. While pulling an all-nighter can seem helpful in the moment, it actually lowers efficiency and the quality of your work over time.
Physical Health Matters: Fuel your body with nourishing meals rather than relying solely on coffee or snacks. The Whole U offers great resources to support healthy eating, including information about health-supporting foods, a Husky Cookbook, and Foods of the World—check out their webpage to learn more. Staying active is also key to maintaining your well-being. On busy days, even a brisk walk between classes can lift your mood and improve concentration.
Daylight Saving
Daylight saving time ends soon—on November 2, 2025—bringing darker evenings and a shift that can impact your circadian rhythm (your body’s internal biological clock that regulates sleep and energy levels). Give yourself grace during this transition by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule, getting plenty of natural light during the day, and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine.
As days grow shorter, effective time management becomes even more important. Try using a planner or a digital calendar to organize your study sessions and commitments, and prioritize your most important tasks during daylight hours when your energy is at its peak.
This season is also the perfect opportunity to explore restorative indoor activities on campus! Consider attending a UW Drama Department production for some cultural enrichment or planning a peaceful visit to the UW Biology Greenhouse—a hidden gem that offers a warm, green escape as winter approaches.
Campus Resources
Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. UW offers many resources designed to help you stay healthy and succeed:
The Husky Health Center provides primary care and same-day visits for acute issues, immunizations, and preventative healthcare. Need quick advice? You can contact the nursing staff who are available both during and after hours to answer questions and provide guidance.
The Counseling Center is your mental health hub on campus. Their Let’s Talk program connects you with experienced counselors for informal, drop-in conversations—no appointment needed. You can also sign up for a 20-minute confidential zoom appointment with Case Manager and Counselor Tomomi (booking link). She will help you connect with health care providers and mental health professional in the U.S. The Counseling Center also offers group therapy sessions, where you can share challenges, exchange support, and learn coping strategies in a safe, welcoming environment.
Remember, you are capable of amazing things. If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out—your UW community is here to help you succeed.
As always, CIRCLE is here to advocate for you, engage with you, and support you throughout your UW journey. Feel free to visit us in 250 Schmitz Hall, Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during office hours. Drop in to say hello or chat with a friend—we’d love to see you!
Sincerely,
CIRCLE Team