Subject: Helpful Reminders About the Upcoming Fall Break

To: All Students

 Dear Seawolves,

As our seventh week of the semester winds down, we hope you have been making lots of strong connections here at Stony Brook and are accessing the many resources available to support your success. We also hope you are looking forward to a few days to relax and recharge! As noted on the academic calendar, Fall Break is scheduled for Monday, October 10 and Tuesday, October 11, so classes will not be in session. This is a good time to destress, have fun, and spend time with friends and family. 

If you currently reside on campus, you are welcome to remain on campus during any or all of the break. Campus offices will continue to operate during regular business hours. You can also access the Recreation Center, Union, SAC, Library, and other campus buildings. Campus dining will also be available as noted in this schedule. In addition, check out SB Engaged for campus events and happenings during FallBreak! 

TimelyCare Is Here for You: Anywhere, Anytime! 
Hundreds of your peers have already used this telehealth and telecounseling platform since its launch in mid-August and given it rave reviews. You too can access TimelyCare’s free 24/7 virtual medical, mental health care, and health coaching services. 

You don’t have to be on campus to use this service, so if you’re away for FallBreak and need to connect with a counselor or medical provider, just go to timelycare.com/stonybrook or download the TimelyCare app (iOS or Android) to use the service. 

Stay Safe During theBreak: 
Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe during your time off:  

• If you are traveling by car, get a good night’s sleep before getting behind the wheel. Each year, nearly 100,000 traffic crashes are attributed to drowsy driving, including more than 1,500 deaths and over 70,000 injuries, according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

• Boost your immune system. We’re about to enter flu season, so now is a good time to get your flu shot on campus, at any pharmacy or your doctor’s office. It is also a good idea to obtain the COVID Bivalent booster, which protects against the most common Omicron variants. You are eligible if it has been at least two months since you completed your primary vaccination or received the most recent booster dose with any approved COVID vaccine. You can obtain it on campus or you can visit vaccines.gov to find off-campus locations.

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers/cleaners are also effective.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. 

• Don’t leave home if you feel unwell. 

• Know your community COVID infection levels and make an informed choice on whether to wear a mask, and in which situations. Follow local and state health and safety requirements.  

Fun Campus Happenings and Upcoming Events:
There are many events and traditions coming up in the next few weeks! October is Hispanic Heritage Month at Stony Brook, and we have several events planned, including today's Opening Ceremony at 1pm in the SAC Ballroom A, celebrity chef visits, cultural lectures, and movie screenings. Visit stonybrook.edu/hhm for the full list of events. 

Also this month, we’re hosting our annual Homecoming celebration! For undergraduates, come meet and support the Homecoming Royals in the Homecoming Royalty Creative Explosion on Thursday, October 20 at 7:30pm in the SAC Auditorium. All students are invited to experience the Seawolf talent in the Seawolves Showcase on Friday, October 21 at 7:30pm on Staller Steps, and root for the Seawolves in the Homecoming football game on Saturday, October 22 at 3:30pm in LaValle Stadium.   

Stay tuned for more information about Spooky Brook, our Halloween celebration, happening on October 29! Mark November 2 on your calendars for Light the Brook, our annual tradition of lighting the Academic Mall for the holiday season, and November 18 for Rainbow Fall Feast, an evening celebration with our chosen families.    

Wishing you a safe and relaxing FallBreak! 

Sincerely,

Rick Gatteau, PhD
Vice President for Student Affairs

Marisa Bisiani, DNP, ANP-BC
Assistant Vice President 
Student Health, Wellness and Prevention Services