The Rhody Wellness Podcast

In today’s episode, I sat down with two graduating seniors from the Class of 2026, along with one student preparing to step into their senior year. Together, we had an engaging conversation about what lies ahead and what they’ve learned along the way. We talked about their plans for the upcoming summer, including internships, career goals, and the experiences that have helped shape their paths during their time at URI.

Beyond future plans, we reflected on some of their favorite memories—from meaningful moments on campus to the little things that made their college experience unforgettable. They also shared valuable advice for underclassmen, offering tips on getting involved, making the most of opportunities, and navigating college life with confidence. Whether you’re nearing graduation or just getting started, this episode is full of relatable stories, helpful insights, and a look at what it really means to grow during your time at URI.

TW: Sexual Assault, Rape

In this episode, I talk with Emily, a student and peer health educator at URI, about the realities of sexual assault and the urgent need for awareness and education. We unpack stigmas and misconceptions, discuss how society often falls short in supporting survivors, and why responses matter more than people realize. We also explore what cultural change could look like and how better conversations around consent can help create safer communities, especially here at URI.

RAINN Helpline: Text: Text HOPE to 64673

Phone: Call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

To connect with URI's Violence Prevention and Advocacy Services, email [email protected]

This episode features Amanda, a campus captain for The Hidden Opponent at URI, a national organization dedicated to supporting student athlete mental health. We dive into why mental health is often treated differently than physical health in sports, and how pressures like performance, coaching, and expectations can take a toll. Amanda shares how The Hidden Opponent is creating space for athletes to connect, share their experiences, and feel less alone through meetings and awareness initiatives.

Connect with URI's Hidden Opponent Chapter:

Insta: @tho_rhody

In this episode, we explore the challenges of building the confidence to use a school gym—an experience that can feel intimidating for many. Our guest, Bella, a student here at URI, shares her personal journey, offering honest insights into overcoming gym-related anxiety. She also provides practical tips and encouragement to help listeners feel more comfortable and confident in their own fitness experiences.

While going to the gym may not appeal to everyone, we also discuss alternative ways for students to stay active on campus. From taking walks and unplugging from their phones to spending time outdoors on a nice day, the episode highlights simple, accessible strategies to incorporate more movement into daily routines.

On campus resources: Campus Rec

In this second installment of our grief mini-series, Allison Hall, a URI Clinical Counselor, dives deeper into what grief really looks like and how to cope with it. She breaks down the different forms of grief and grief therapy, shares specific strategies, and explains common experiences and symptoms that are often surprisingly linked to grief. Allison also gives advice on how to support a friend when talking about loss feels awkward. Whether you’re grieving yourself or helping someone else, this episode offers practical, honest guidance for navigating the tough moments.

URI Counseling Services: For support, call 401-874-2288.

Grief is not just about death, and it does not follow a clear set of steps. In this episode, we talk about what grief really is, the stages of grief and why they are not linear, and some of the common emotions and reactions people experience. We are joined by Allison Hall, a clinical counselor who provides grief counseling at the University of Rhode Island, to discuss the different types of grief students may face, from death of a loved one, breakups and losing friendships to injuries, leaving a sport, and major life transitions like coming to college.

This is the first part to our two-part mini-series on grief, join us next week for part two, where we will discuss how to cope with grief, campus resources, and how to be a good friend to someone experiencing grief.

For URI counseling services, call 401-874-2288

In this episode, we explore the importance of peer support and its role in mental health. We’re joined by Rhody Stronger Together, a student-led club focused on peer support, mental health advocacy, and education. We discuss how normalizing mental health conversations can reduce stigma and share coping strategies for navigating stressful times.

Looking to connect with Rhody Stronger Together?:

Insta: @rhodystrongertogether

Email: [email protected]

Meetings are biweekly on Wednesdays @ Memorial Union

Counseling Center:

217 Roosevelt Hall; 401-874-2288

What does college look like when you’re not 18, living in a dorm, or figuring life out for the first time?

In this episode we talk to Mike, a veteran and parent, about what it was really like coming back to college for a second time. Mike talks about balancing family responsibilities, navigating classrooms full of younger students, and finding his place within a college culture that doesn’t always naturally align with nontraditional students, even when support systems exist.

We hear how his life and military experience shaped his approach to school, the ways professors and the university supported him, and what helped him feel like he truly belonged. So, whether you’re a veteran, a parent, or someone who once thought college had “passed you by", this episode is for you!

How do vaccines actually work, and how effective are they? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jeff Bratberg, Professor of Pharmacy Practice, to explain the science behind vaccines, what efficacy means, and why vaccines are a cornerstone of public health. A clear, evidence-based conversation designed to answer common questions and cut through misinformation.

In this episode, I sit down with Leetal to talk about the College Recovery Program including what it offers, who it’s for, and how it supports students navigating addiction recovery or reassessing their relationship with substances. We talk about the importance of connection, discuss the resources available, and explore how students can find community and support on campus.