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Journey

Welcome to Mat-Su College!

Welcome to your Mat-Su College educational journey. There are many rewarding experiences along the path to your ultimate goal; however, there are tests along the way (and not just the ones you take in class).

Mat-Su College is sponsoring a series of activities for students, staff, and faculty this semester to help you cope with stress, rise to challenges, and stay healthy as you make your way through this exciting, and often hectic time in your life.

MSCLogo-IdeaDragon

By joining your MSC community at Journey events this semester, you can follow Sophia, our Arctic Dragon Mascot, on the four paths for health and well-being:  

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Awareness of good mental health for yourself and others

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Balance between school, work, family, and self-care

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Connection to campus, community, friends, and family

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Off the Beaten Path invites you to expand your horizons

All Journey events are free. Just look for the Mat-Su College Arctic Dragon stamp of approval! Some events require pre-registration, so be sure to check the event before attending.

Mat-Su College Journey activities and behavioral care services are supported by a Healthy Impact Grant from the Mat-Su Health Foundation.

Incentives

Attend events, collect stamps, and collect incentives

Bring your Passport to Student Services when you have collected:
  • 3 stamps - A choice of Frisbee, pedometer, or USB charger (while supplies lasts)
  • 5 stamps - $10 J&J Café gift card
  • 6 stamps - $20 Campus Cache gift card
  • 7-10 stamps - Enter a drawing to win Journey spirit-wear or a $50 Campus Cache gift card 
Remember: when you attend a Dragon-approved event, make sure you get your passport stamped. Passports will not be stamped retroactively: You must collect your stamp at the event. Limit one passport per person.
 
Passports will be available in Student Services, around campus, and at Journey Activities. Good luck on your journey and best wishes for a happy and healthy semester!

Dragon Approved Activities

Click a month below to see all of the upcoming Journey Events.

  • January
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    All Things (Dark) chocolate with Winona Benson 
    January 24, 11:30am - 1pm, Atrium
    It may be dark and chilly out, but there is nothing like chocolate to chase away winter blues.  Come for a demonstration and sampling.
     
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    The Relevance of Dena'ina Spirituality in a Postmodern World
    January 24, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 118
    The Dena'ina Native culture of Alaska was one of the world's most sustainable and food equitable cultures.  What can we learn from their success and apply those principles today?
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    Let's Talk:  Sleep Health with Desiree Compton
    January 30, 12:00-12:50pm, FSM 204
    Are you getting enough sleep?  This seminar will discuss the importance of sleep, the risks of sleep deprivation, and go over some strategies to help you get adequate rest.
  • February
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    Let's Talk:
    Music and Mood with Meggie Aube and Judy Gette
    February 5, 12:00-12:50pm, FSM 204
    Do you wonder about how music affects how you feel?  We will discuss different musical patterns and the emotions they elicit.  Come with examples of music you listen to and how it makes you feel.
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    Cooking with Chocolate with Winona Benson
    February 8, 11am-1pm, Cafeteria
    Winona will share health benefits and make tasty chocolate treats. Pre-register by emailing Winona before the event. Limited space is available for 12 people. Find out more information at NourishedAK (link).
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    Art with Noell Bell
    February 12, 12-1:30pm, FSM 212
    A guided project with plenty of support to explore your artistic side.  You will be given verbal prompts and look at the thought process behind your choices of color and design.  Please note you do not need to stay the full time.  Come early due to limited seating. (Max 20 individuals)
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    Public Health Nurse Kate Cornwall
    February 12, 3-5pm, Atrium & JKB 108
    Get information on sexual health and other topics.

     

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    Northrim Bank Lecture Series
    Demogtaphic Challenges in Alaska's Economic Future
    February 12, 6-8pm, Glenn Massay Theater
    Dr. Ralph Townsend, Director of ISER will speak about increasing healthcare costs associated with the aging population of Alaskans.

    Reception and refreshments at 6pm
    Presentation at 7pm
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    Public Health Nurse Kate Cronwall
    February 13, 11am-1pm, Atrium & JKB 128
    Get information on sexual health and other topics.
     
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    Elizabeth Peratrovich Day
    February 15, 11am-2pm, MSC Cafe
    Come learn about the woman who was instrumental in reducing discrimination and increasing civil rights for Alaska Natives before statehood.  Join us for two films and a panel discussion on civil rights in Alaska.  An Alaska Native Food Potluck will accompany all three activities.  All are welcome. 
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    Introduction to Yoga
    February 19, 12:00-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Join Ailis Vann for an introductory yoga session to help you become familiar with a few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques.  Please wear comfortable clothes. Bring a water bottle and have an open mind to try something new.  Your body and mind will thank you! 
    Yoga mats will be provided. 
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    Let's Talk:  Suicide Awareness with Jill Ramsey from UAA
    February 21, 12-1pm, FSM 204
    As many as 1 in 5 college students are affected by symptoms of anxiety or depression, or both.  How do we identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and addictions?  This seminar will open a discussion about depression, anxiety, suicide prevention and the ways in which individuals can help someone who may be in crisis.
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    Introduction to Yoga
    February 26, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Join Ailis Vann for introductory yoga sessions to help you become familiar with a few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques. Please wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and have an open mind to try something new. Your body and mind will thank you! Yoga mats will be provided.
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    Let's Talk:  Personal Safety
    February 28, 12-1pm, FSM 204
    Join us for an informational talk with a UAA Police Department officer on keeping yourself safe on campus and in the community. 
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    Improv "Scared Scriptless"
    February 28, 7-8:30pm, Glenn Massay Theater
    Improv includes some audience participation through providing ideas.  This is a great source of laughter and stress relief.  If you are ready for a laugh and want to share some fun, join us and bring friends! 
  • March
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    Movie "Sylvia
    March 4, 4-6:45pm FSM 204
    We will be exploring depression and anxiety.  The movie follows the life of Sylvia Plath, a renowned poet, who sinks into depression and suicidal behavior.  Discussion on depression and treatment will follow the film.  This is part of the women's studies course.
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    Tai Chi
    March 4, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Join Jenn Bartolomew for 'meditation in motion'.  Tai Chi is a non-competitive martial art known for both its defense techniques and health benefits.  The regular practice of Tai Chi can strengthen muscles, improve balance, and reduce stress.
     
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    Back country Safety Spring Edition
    March 5, 12-2pm, FSM 204/206
    Learn to plan, prepare, travel and camp in Alaska's back country with instructors from the Alaska Avalanche Information Center who have dedicate their lives to wilderness exploring and sharing lessons learned! 
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    Tai Chi
    March 4, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Join Jenn Bartolomew for 'meditation in motion'.  Tai Chi is a non-competitive martial art known for both its defense techniques and health benefits.  The regular practice of Tai Chi can strengthen muscles, improve balance, and reduce stress.
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    Anxiety and Depression Panel
    March 6, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 119
    Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health diagnosis.  What are they? How do they impact people's lives? What are recommended forms of treatment?  What are ways we can support loved ones who are diagnosed?
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    Introduction to Yoga
    March 8, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Join Ailis Vann for introductory yoga sessions to help you become familiar with a few basic yoga poses, plus breathing, relaxation, and concentration techniques. Please wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and have an open mind to try something new. Your body and mind will thank you! Yoga mats will be provided.
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    Equinox Film Festival
    20 March, 5-10pm, JKB 108
    A celebration of films by and about women!  Note:  There is an admission fee.
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    Let's Talk:  Transforming Unconscious Bias
    March 21, 12-12:50pm, JKB 128
    Libby Roderick will be here to explore what implicit bias look like and how we can take steps towards a more equitable future for all.
    Staff and Faculty session is at 1:30-3pm, JKB 108
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    Fridays Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Certification Course
    March 22 and 29, and April 5
    Attendance at ALL THREE sessions is required.
    9am-1pm, FSM 202/204
    The Rape Aggression Defense System is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women.  The RAD system is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training.  Sign-ups are required, and attendance at ALL THREE sessions (12 hours) is required.
     
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    Let's Talk: Historical Trauma with Meda DeWitt
    March 26, 12-12:50pm, FSM 204
    A frank discussion on the effects of colonization on Alaska Native peoples.
  • April
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    Faith Panel
    April 2, 6-7:30pm, SNOD 118
    A panel will explore the intersection of faith and mental health treatment.  We will explore how spiritual leaders respond to people in their faith communities who suffer from mental health issues.
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    Art with Noell Bell
    April 5, 12-1:30pm, FSM 212
    A design class utilizing acrylic paint and collage to create a visual map to reflect the students vision of intentionality for their life.  It will incorporate current activities the student is participating in as well as activities they want to engage in that fosters personal growth and impacts the world in a positive manner. Please sign up directly with
    noelcbell@gmail.com. (Max 10 individuals).
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    National Library Week
    February 7-13, during library hours at the Alvin S. Okeson Library
    Research has shown reading has lifelong benefits.  Help celebrate and promote reading by creating and displaying a poster for your favorite book.  The library will provide materials and display posters during National Library Week.
    Balance
    Mid-Day Meditations
    April 16, 12pm-12:50pm, FSM 206
    Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure and risk of heart disease.
    Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
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    Mid-Day Meditations
    April 18, 12-12:50pm, FSM 206
    Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure and risk of heart disease.
    Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
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    Mid-Day Meditations
    April 23, 12-12:50pm, Glenn Massay Theater Lobby
    Regular meditation practice can bring balance into a busy life by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression; improving focus and attention; and, reducing high blood pressure and risk of heart disease.
    Take a 45-minute meditation break with Jenn Bartholomew!
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    Director's Walk
    April 30, 12-12:50pm, Meet outside of Director's Office
    Get outside, enjoy nature, and make connections along the way.  Join Dr. Colberg, Mat-Su College's Director, for a walk on the trails.
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    Student Showcase
    "A" work pays off!  Enter a paper, project, research report, or any MSC class assignment on which you earned an "A" in the MSC Student Showcase.  You can win prizes, but ore importantly, a notation on your resume that you participated can make you stand out above your competition for a job or acceptance into a competitive degree program.  More details on the Student Showcase Website.
  • May
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    Director's Walk
    May2, 12-12:50pm, Meet outside of Director's Office
    Get outside, enjoy nature, and make connections along the way.  Join Dr. Colberg, Mat-Su College's Director, for a walk on the trails.

Traveler's Aid

Earn a Proactive Stamp:

    • Attending a FAFSA Friday or UAA Scholarship Workshop
    • Using the MSC Math or Writing Tutor services
    • Joining in on a Math Cram Jam session
    • Showing up to a library information session
    • Meeting with a career counselor in Student Services
    • Meeting with your your Mat-Su College advisor

Don’t Go It Alone!

You’re not alone on this journey! If you feel like you’re losing your way, there are places to go to help you get back on track:

Counseling Services

Mat-Su College students may receive up to five free counseling appointments with an experienced behavioral health clinician. To make an appointment, call Mat-Su Health Services at 907-376-2411 and identify yourself as a Mat-Su College student. You may meet with the clinician on campus or at Mat-Su Health Services.

Campus Resources

All faculty and staff are available to assist you in achieving your educational goals. Just ask for help!

Mat-Su Valley Resources

Pick up a United Way of Mat-Su Guide to Valley Resources at Journey Awareness events or visit the United Way website for a complete listing of organizations and agencies.