By: Damion Drackett, Contributing Writer
For many students at Saint Leo University, living far away from home can have a major impact on their lives. One top priority is ensuring that the students are healthy, both physically and mentally. What can we do to ensure that this occurs?
One way the university does this is by making it safe to live on campus during the devastating times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though this is an aim of the University, it is hard to maintain unless the students also take the matter seriously.
“Health is really hard while Corona is present, along with the stress of school,” said Ashley Butler, a senior studying Political Science and president of the Student Government Union. “Being involved, exercising, and eating healthy are a bit exhausting.”
However, as the saying goes, “You can lead the horse to water, but you cannot force it to drink.” Even though student health is a priority of the university, it is up to the individual to the fulfil this necessity.
Maiki Shiray, a freshman studying Sports Business, has pledged to keeping his health and fitness alive.
“Saint Leo University has created opportunities for me to be pure in health,” said Shiray. He explained that, by providing a variety of healthy meals options in the cafeteria and allowing him access to the gym and courts, the university has given Shiray all the resources he needs.
Having a salad bar and a sandwich bar in the Cafeteria, as well as providing fantastic areas for keeping in shape, have been some of the amazing ways Saint Leo seeks to Protect the Pride and ensure student wellness.
Additionally, the university has not only made these options available, they are now aiming for a brand-new start through the construction of the Wellness Center for Fall 2021. The Wellness Center will contain a pool, a fitness area, health services, a café, and much more. This new building will allow students to be more comfortable and determined to be a part of creating a healthy society.
Health is not just a safe place—it is a necessity and a passion. As a student population, we should continue to work on our health and wellness, and look forward to a more radiant future in protecting ourselves.
