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Advising is a critical part of a student’s college experience and Alicia Groatman, an advisor in the Ric Edelman College of Communication and Creative Arts, is taking a holistic approach to ensure students choose the courses that best reflect their education and career goals. Alicia says that she encourages her students “to not just take classes to check off boxes, but [to] be more confident in their choices and what they consider beneficial for themselves.”

In recent years, Alicia has attended many courses, events and trainings to help build holistic advising practices that center around wellness and mindfulness. These have allowed her to bring more positivity into advising by assisting her in turning around negative situations, such as helping students see “how hardships and adversities can be used to their benefit to help themselves become stronger and more resilient.”

A primary focus of Alicia’s holistic approach is to make her office a comfortable and positive environment for her students. Not only is she careful to use positive wording when talking with students, but she also employs relaxation techniques such as aromatherapy, a personal favorite of many students. She also ensures that she takes care of herself so she can best advise her students; Alicia practices yoga and Reiki, which help her keep a clear and open mind and allow her to focus on her students. 

Alicia also noted that these practices have helped her in the transition to remote work. She says that with the current stresses, it is important to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves first. There is no right or wrong way to approach mindfulness and self-care, but finding something that works for you can help you cope with everyday stresses. Alicia suggests trying meditation, exercise, or art. These holistic practices have aided Alicia in improving not only her approach to advising but also her personal well-being. Trying holistic approaches to your work and home lives can help you to improve your well-being in both spaces.