Stressed out at ‘Over-Committed U’?

drew a crowd of students. DARE to Grow received sponsorship from the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and from Disability Access Services. It showcased the diversity and richness of different cultures and was an excellent opportunity for students and faculty to come together and connect with each other and learn about their different backgrounds.

Student leaders say balance, limits, breaks, perception keys to getting it all done

Jamison Ko LIFE EDITOR

National Stress Awareness

Month occurs annually during the month of April to bring awareness to the negative impacts of stress.

Stress is defined by the National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health as “a physical and emotional reaction that people experience as they encounter challenges in life.”

While stress can be chronic and dangerous, feeling stressed occasionally is a normal coping mechanism to experience throughout your life.

With the nickname “Over-Committed University,” it is no secret that OCU students are incredibly busy and therefore experience stress as a part of their lives.

Maddie Pivonka, a senior dance

Blast From The Past

Did you know?

April 10, 1970: management major, serves as president of We Are Queens, the treasurer of Students of Arts Management, dance senator for the Student Government Association, and is an RA in Banning Hall.

She recognizes that serving as a leader is challenging but fulfilling, as “it takes extra effort to not only think about yourself but to also prioritize others. However, I think this all works out in the end, and everyone benefits from the hard work.”

While Pivonka rates her stress at a 7 out of 10 on average, she has found several ways to manage her course load and extracurricular obligations.

She notes that “To create balance, I think you need to know your needs and be realistic with what

Believe it or not, the small but mighty Oklahoma City University can claim a unique bragging right:

We’ve got an NBA player!

Who knew that our beloved Stars could shine so brightly on the biggest basketball stage of all?

Few people are aware that a former Oklahoma City University basketball star, Willie Watson, played professionally in the NBA.

Born Nov. 5, 1945, in Clayton, North Carolina, Watson began his basketball career at Oklahoma City University.

After honing his skills with the OCU Stars, you can do today. Even if you don’t get everything on your to-do list done, you still did at least one amazing thing.” Students often struggle with knowing what their limits are and how to meet them, yet there is a plethora of ways to de-stress on your own or resources available to assist with stress management. the SGA junior-at-large senator.

While holding these positions, she states that “these leadership positions can create stressful situations but the positions in their entirety bring me joy.” key. If you see something as negatively stressing you out, you will feel weighed down.

“However, if you see it as a challenge to grow then you may feel lighter.”

Pivonka Watkins

Campus Counseling is available for appointments to all students free of cost.

While Pivonka said she has only utilized this resource once, she listed meditation, reading, phone calls with loved ones, and walks outside as methods to use to relax.

Annelise Watkins, a sophomore youth ministry and religious education major, is the president of Better Together, a PLC mentor, and he went on to play for the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers before being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the sixth round of the 1970 NBA Draft.

During his rookie season with the Bucks, Watson played in 47 games, averaging 2.6 points and 2.2 rebounds per game.

While those numbers may not have been eye-popping, Watson’s dedication to the sport was clear to all who saw him play.

Though his career in the NBA was brief, Watson’s time on the court was marked by his talent and tenacity as a forward.

His hard work and perseverance served as an inspiration to his teammates and fans alike.

After his time in the NBA, Watson contin-

Like Pivonka, Watkins rates her stress level at a 7 out of 10, and recommends an itemized list to help balance and accomplish tasks.

“Journaling and exercising really improve my mood and help to de-stress me as well,” she said.

There is no one recipe for success in balancing taking care of yourself, being a leader, and being a student.

However, remembering to have fun and enjoy the process is key.

Student leader Pivonka believes that “stress can have a negative or positive connotation. Perception is ued to play basketball professionally overseas, further showcasing his talent on the court.

Sadly, he passed away in 2008 at the age of 62.

As an alumnus of Oklahoma City University, Willie Watson serves as a reminder of the talent and dedication that can be found within the OCU community.

Though his time in the NBA was short, his impact on the world of basketball will never be forgotten.

Watson’s legacy continues to inspire current and future OCU athletes to strive for greatness on and off the court.

Jake Adebayo Tech Archivist

Watkins advises that student leaders “understand that there may be situations where you experience delayed gratification and not immediate gratification – and that is OK!”

Both leaders acknowledge the stress that arises from being leaders and students but also recognize the growth they’ve achieved in these roles.

Stress is a natural part of life, especially in college.

Yet OCU’s student leaders continue to overcome stress and many other obstacles to reach their goals.