What’s the best way to get yourself psyched for exams on a grey, dreary, early-December day? How about getting a hug from a total (but incredibly kind and well-meaning) stranger?
Derrick Enslow, Dal’s program manager of health promotion, and his Student Health Promotion team, were happy to oblige for a couple of hours on Monday morning during their first Free Hugs Day initiative. In an effort to raise students’ spirits, and wish them good luck on exams, the team set up outside the Killam Library and gave out hugs to about 200 students in need of a pick-me-up.
“It was really just about wishing students well on their exams and making them feel good during this stressful time of year,” says Derrick.
The Dal Tiger got into the action as well, helping to spread the love. Anyone who was a bit too shy received Hershey chocolate hugs instead. The team (comprised of students Jennifer Blodgett, Ellen Bode, Zoe Bordeleau-Cass, Chelsea Doherty, Hillary Geneau, Alexa Grant, Zhewei Li, Kristen Rogers, Alex Shaffter, and Christie Silversides) also handed out information sheets with stress-busting tips. Helpful hints aside, Derrick says it was all about putting smiles on faces.
“The most rewarding part of it for everybody involved was the feedback from all the students who said, ‘You just made my day.’ ”
Dal Student Life was on hand to capture some of the good cheer, check out their video: