Hansel E. Tookes Student Recreation Center at Florida A&M University. (Yerimiah Evans/FAMUAN)
The impact of stress can be debilitating, especially for college students.
Students say juggling academic demands, work and personal responsibilities can make them feel as though the weight of the world is on their shoulders.
At a historically Black university like Florida A&M University, where students often navigate unique social and cultural pressures, they say focusing on wellness is essential to reducing stress and promoting success.
The Hansel E. Tookes Student Recreation Center provides students with resources to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Carl Starling, assistant director of FAMU Campus Recreation, said wellness plays a larger role than many realize.
“A strong wellness culture also supports retention and graduation rates by helping students maintain balance amid academic and personal responsibilities,” Starling said.
Increased energy, focus and mental clarity can improve academic performance and help set students up for long-term success. For many students, physical activity serves as an outlet for both internal and external stress.
The rec center also creates a sense of community and offers multiple ways to get involved. In addition to gym access, students can participate in yoga classes, rock climbing, basketball, game nights, financial workshops and intramural sports.
Students play recreational basketball. (Yerimiah Evans/FAMUAN)
“I believe FAMU students go through so much weekly, whether it is with class or our personal lives, and sometimes we need a safe place for refuge,” said Cameron White of the campus rec marketing team. “When overwhelmed, students can break down and crash. We want more students to view the rec center as a safe place to help with stress management.”
For Emori Long, a senior at FAMU, the gym has become a key part of her routine and personal growth.
“The gym helps me balance various parts of my life because I have to hold myself accountable enough to go throughout the week,” Long said. “It’s a time where I get to pour back into myself and reap positive benefits over time through consistency.”
Long said working out in the morning helps her manage stress and start her day with a clear mind.
“If my brain is foggy and I have a lot of stress, I tell myself that after my workout it will be gone, and it always is,” she said. “Working out definitely changes your mindset.”
She added that consistency in the gym improves her mood, productivity, and overall habits, showing that movement is more than exercise, but rather a form of self-care.