Graduate Student Well-Being Challenge Fosters Personal Growth at UGA 

Beginning in Fall 2024, University of Georgia Recreational Sports and Student Well-being Resources partnered with the UGA Graduate School to launch an eight-week well-being challenge designed specifically for graduate students. After a successful debut, the program gained momentum during the spring semester. 

The challenge begins with a body composition test, followed by eight weeks of activities focused on building healthy habits in areas such as physical activity, sleep, hydration and mindfulness. Some of these challenges included attending fitness classes, journaling, spending time outdoors and engaging in meaningful conversations. At the conclusion of the program, students completed a second body composition test to measure their progress. Participants earned points for visiting the Ramsey Student Center or Pound Hall, engaging in weekly challenges, and reducing their body fat percentage. The top scorers won prizes, including a free unlimited group fitness pass at Ramsey for one semester. 

During the spring semester, Reneliza Cejalvo and Raymond Parcon emerged as winners of the challenge and shared their experiences. 

“I truly enjoyed the challenge,” said Parcon. “It was designed for graduate students who want to have healthier habits but struggle to find motivation to start because of the demands of graduate school.” 

Cejalvo had a similar experience. “The weekly challenges were a great motivator, helping me prioritize my wellness,” she said. “I wish more graduate students could experience the benefits that extend far beyond weight loss.” 

Well-being is a holistic concept that encompasses more than just physical progress—it also includes mental, emotional, financial, and social health. The well-being challenge emphasizes this well-rounded approach to personal development.  

Associate Director for Fitness, Well-being, and student Engagement Lisa Williamson believes the challenge helps students build sustainable habits that extend beyond the eight-week program. 

“Our purpose is to get graduate students participating in well-being behaviors and to hopefully set them on the path to greater well-being long term,” she said. 

Graduate students interested in joining the fall challenge can visit the Graduate Student Well-Being Challenge Website.  Registration is limited to 20 students and opens in mid-August.