CAFY Students Embrace Wellness, Growth, and Connection
April 7, 2026
At USM, student success goes beyond the classroom, it's about building confidence, fostering connection, and continuing to grow while soaring higher.
Following a dynamic three-day Student Success Week at USM students of the Caribbean Academic Foundation Year (CAFY) program are reflecting on a meaningful and impactful experience centered on wellness, personal growth, and community building.
As part of the week’s activities, students participated in a session led by USM counselor Dr. Carole Joseph, where they explored how to manage feelings of overwhelm and the importance of taking care of their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
During the session, students openly shared how they currently cope with stress. Many highlighted listening to music, spending time alone, playing games, engaging in sports, and connecting with friends and family as ways to decompress. Others shared that activities such as baking or enjoying comfort foods help them feel better.
At the same time, students also acknowledged that too much isolation can sometimes lead to overthinking, reinforcing the importance of balance and staying connected.
Dr. Joseph emphasized the importance of developing healthy routines, including getting enough sleep, practicing self-care, and incorporating simple techniques into daily life. Students were introduced to a breathing exercise, breathing in for a count of four and slowly exhaling through the mouth that can be used to manage stress. She encouraged students to practice these techniques regularly, rather than waiting until they feel overwhelmed.
Beyond the workshops, students also engaged in activities focused on wellness and creativity, including a self-care day that allowed them to step away from their usual academic routine and focus on themselves.
Several students shared their reflections on the experience:
“I feel refreshed,” shared CAFY student Makayla Cooks.
“I feel inspired after painting,” said Geovanni Paynardo, referring to a creative session led by fellow classmate Melisa Cukier.
Other students expressed that the final day of the week was their favorite, as it provided a sense of freedom and an opportunity to focus on their personal well-being.
“It was refreshing and therapeutic. The fact that the three days shook things up and took us away from the norm of being in class is what I enjoyed most,” said Maliek Bryson.
Throughout the week, one of the most notable outcomes was the strong sense of connection among the students. The CAFY cohort continues to demonstrate a close bond and growing sense of community, supporting each other both inside and outside the classroom.
Student Success Week forms part of USM’s ongoing commitment to providing a holistic educational experience, where students are not only academically prepared, but also equipped with the life skills needed to succeed.
Latest News →
As part of the week’s activities, students participated in a session led by USM counselor Dr. Carole Joseph, where they explored how to manage feelings of overwhelm and the importance of taking care of their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
During the session, students openly shared how they currently cope with stress. Many highlighted listening to music, spending time alone, playing games, engaging in sports, and connecting with friends and family as ways to decompress. Others shared that activities such as baking or enjoying comfort foods help them feel better.
At the same time, students also acknowledged that too much isolation can sometimes lead to overthinking, reinforcing the importance of balance and staying connected.
Dr. Joseph emphasized the importance of developing healthy routines, including getting enough sleep, practicing self-care, and incorporating simple techniques into daily life. Students were introduced to a breathing exercise, breathing in for a count of four and slowly exhaling through the mouth that can be used to manage stress. She encouraged students to practice these techniques regularly, rather than waiting until they feel overwhelmed.
Beyond the workshops, students also engaged in activities focused on wellness and creativity, including a self-care day that allowed them to step away from their usual academic routine and focus on themselves.
Several students shared their reflections on the experience:
“I feel refreshed,” shared CAFY student Makayla Cooks.
“I feel inspired after painting,” said Geovanni Paynardo, referring to a creative session led by fellow classmate Melisa Cukier.
Other students expressed that the final day of the week was their favorite, as it provided a sense of freedom and an opportunity to focus on their personal well-being.
“It was refreshing and therapeutic. The fact that the three days shook things up and took us away from the norm of being in class is what I enjoyed most,” said Maliek Bryson.
Throughout the week, one of the most notable outcomes was the strong sense of connection among the students. The CAFY cohort continues to demonstrate a close bond and growing sense of community, supporting each other both inside and outside the classroom.
Student Success Week forms part of USM’s ongoing commitment to providing a holistic educational experience, where students are not only academically prepared, but also equipped with the life skills needed to succeed.
Latest News →
