In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Stephen Miedema, Assistant Director of Career Education at SDSU, for an open and relatable conversation about imposter syndrome — that persistent feeling of self-doubt despite clear success and capability. Together, they explore what imposter syndrome is, why it’s so common among both students and seasoned professionals, and how it can impact performance, confidence, and sense of belonging.   Learning Objectives 1. Define imposter syndrome and describe how it commonly appears in academic and professional settings. 2. Recognize emotional and behavioral patterns associated with imposter syndrome. 3. Explain how feelings of self-doubt can affect performance, confidence, and belonging in both student and career roles. 4. Apply strategies for coping and identify campus and community resources that can support mental wellbeing and career confidence.   Processing Questions: 1. What examples of imposter syndrome stood out to you as especially relatable? 2. The conversation highlighted transitions - new roles, new jobs, or new environments - as times when self-doubt often creeps in. Why do you think these moments trigger imposter syndrome? 3. How do you typically respond when you succeed at something? Do you credit your skills and effort or dismiss it as luck or a fluke? How might reflecting more objectively help build confidence?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and State of Wellbeing recognizes this month through a special episode featuring Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Michaela Willis. Dr. Willis joins us to discuss her personal journey through breast cancer. She shares candid reflections on survivorship, resilience, and the emotional toll of navigating serious health challenges while serving in a high-profile leadership role. Listeners will hear how Michaela balanced her responsibilities with self-care, leaned on her SDSU community, and found strength in vulnerability. This episode is a testament to courage, empathy, and the power of community—and a reminder to prioritize health, seek support, and embrace resilience in the face of adversity.   Learning Outcomes: 1. Reflect on the significance of modeling self-care and wellbeing as a leader. 2. Discuss how personal health challenges can impact leadership capacity, empathy, and connection. 3. Recognize the importance of support systems in fostering resilience and wellbeing during serious health challenges.   Processing Questions: 1. What part of Dr. Willis' story resonated most with you and why? 2. What role do empathy and vulnerability play in effective leadership? 3. How can leaders model wellbeing in organizations? 4. Have you ever had to balance personal health with professional responsibilities? What strategies helped you?  

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head, Family Resource Management Field Specialist with SDSU Extension, to talk about financial wellbeing for college students and young adults. Together they explore the common money challenges students face—like paying for college, navigating scams, and managing limited budgets—and highlight the opportunities to build strong financial habits early. From developing confidence in money decisions to making plans that adapt when life changes, this conversation offers practical advice and resources to help students take control of their financial wellbeing now and into the future.   Learning Objectives: 1. Identify common financial challenges faced by college students, including scams, budgeting difficulties, and paying for school expenses. 2. Recognize opportunities to build healthy financial habits during college and early adulthood. 3. Describe how financial stress can impact academic performance and overall wellbeing. 4. Explore resources available at SDSU, such as CashCourse and financial counseling, to support financial decision-making.   Processing Questions 1. What financial challenges mentioned in the episode feel most relevant to you or other college students you know? 2. Lorna shared the mantra: “You are in control of your money; your money is not in control of you.” What does this mean to you, and how could you apply it in your own life? 3. Think about a recent spending choice you made. How might that decision affect your financial wellbeing tomorrow or in the future?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Claire Koenecke, this year’s Grand Pooba, and Eleanor Wehseler, Marketing Assistant Pooba, to celebrate one of South Dakota State University’s most cherished traditions - Hobo Day. Claire and Eleanor share what it’s like to plan the 113th Hobo Day, offer a behind-the-scenes look at the week’s events, and reflect on the meaning and community spirit that make this tradition so special.   Learning Objectives: 1. Identify key events that take place during Hobo Week and their signficance for students and the community. 2. Explain how participation in university traditions like Hobo Day fosters connection, belonging, and wellbeing among students. 3. Recognize opportunities for student involvement in planning and leading Hobo Day through the Hobo Day Committee.   Processing Questions: 1. Think about a tradition or event that’s meaningful to you—how does it bring people together or create shared memories? 2. How do traditions like Hobo Day help students feel a sense of belonging and connection on campus? 3. What advice would you give to a first-year student who feels hesitant to attend campus events or get involved in traditions like Hobo Day?

In this episode of State of Well-Being from South Dakota State University, host Caitlin Walters sits down with graduate student and success advisor Kennedy Goblirsch to talk about procrastination and time management—two of the biggest challenges college students face. Together, they explore why so many students put off assignments, how perfectionism and fear of failure play a role, and practical strategies to overcome these habits. From finding your peak energy times to using accountability groups, planners, and even simple rewards, Kennedy shares insights and campus resources that help students stay on track. Whether you’re a first-year student adjusting to new expectations or an upperclassman looking for better balance, this conversation offers tools to reduce stress, boost productivity, and support academic success.   Learning Objectives: 1. Identify common causes of procrastination, including perfectionism, fear of failure, and distractions. 2. Apply practical strategies for overcoming procrastination. 3. Explain how campus resources can provide support for time management and academic success.   Processing Questions: 1. What are two strategies you can use when you feel like procrastinating? 2. What are two ways that the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center can help you when it comes to procrastination, time management, and academic success?

Living on campus means more than just sharing a room—it’s about learning communication, setting boundaries, and building a sense of community. In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters sits down with Becky Peterson, Director of Housing and Residential Life, and Nathaniel Condelli, Assistant Director for Residential Life, to talk about the ups and downs of living with roommates. Together, they explore strategies for breaking the ice, handling conflict, setting boundaries, and making the most of campus housing. Listeners will also learn how community assistants and hall directors support students, and why investing in these relationships can make campus life more meaningful—and even more fun.   Learning Objectives: 1. Identify effective strategies for building positive relationships with roommates. 2. Apply practical approaches to navigating roommate conflicts and differences in schedules, habits, or preferences. 3. Recognize the importance of clear communication and boundary-setting in shared living spaces.   Processing Questions: 1. What strategies mentioned in the episode could help you break the ice and get to know your roommate better? 2. When have you found it difficult to set boundaries, and how might the roommate agreement tool help? 3. How can the skills you practice in roommate relationships - like compromise, communication, and respect - translate into other areas of your life (friendships, work, family)? 4. What small step could you take this week to connect more with your roommate or residence hall community?

Starting college is an exciting new chapter, but it can also bring feelings of homesickness and uncertainty about where you belong. In this episode of State of Wellbeing, Chief Wellness Officer Shari Landmark sits down with SDSU counselors Autumn Garr and Julia Walker to talk about belonging, connection, and the realities of homesickness. Together, they share insights from their work with students, debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical tools for navigating loneliness and building community on campus. From exploring campus resources to discovering your own strengths, this conversation reminds every Jackrabbit that you are not alone—and that you truly belong here.   Learning Objectives: 1. Define the concepts of belonging and homesickness in the context of the college experience. 2. Recognize common signs that a student may be struggline with homesickness or disconnection. 3. Identify misconceptions about homesickness and belonging that can create barriers to wellbeing. 4. Apply practical coping strategies and campus resources to support a greater sense of connection and belonging.   Processing Questions: 1. How do you personally define “belonging,” and in what ways does that align (or differ) from the ideas shared in the episode? 2. The counselors mentioned that homesickness can look different for everyone. How have you experienced or observed this in yourself or others? 3. Which coping strategies or campus resources mentioned in the episode feel most accessible or useful to you right now? 4. The episode emphasized the role of self-acceptance in belonging. What are some ways you can practice greater self-acceptance in your own life? 5. What small step can you commit to this week to strengthen your sense of belonging?

In this episode, we are kicking off the 2025-2026 academic year with a discussion with SDSU Chief Wellness Officer Shari Landmark about the activities at the Miller Wellness Center. From addressing sleep and anxiety to promoting resilience, recreation, and community connection, the conversation offers practical insights for both students and faculty as they navigate the academic year.   Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the roles and services provided by the Miller Wellness Center, Student Health Clinic, and Counseling Center. 2. Identify the eight dimensions of wellness used in SDSU’s wellbeing model. 3. Recognize common challenges students face (e.g., sleep difficulties, anxiety, academic stress, roommate conflicts) and the resources available to address them.   Processing Questions: 1. How do you see physical wellness connecting to your overall wellbeing? 2. Which wellbeing dimension do you feel most confident about in your own life and why? 3. What does resilience mean to you in the context of college life?

In this episode of the "State of Well-Being" podcast, host Kevin Sackreiter, Executive Director for the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence at South Dakota State University (SDSU), engages in a meaningful conversation with Brenna Rubendall-LaVoy, Professional Academic Advisor, and True Thorne, Trio Upward Bound and Student Support Services Academic Coordinator. The focus of their discussion is on the unique experiences and challenges faced by first generation college students at SDSU.   Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify common challenges faced by first generation college students, such as financial difficulties, balancing school and personal life, and understanding the hidden curriculum of higher education. 2. Discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges, including seeking support from advisors and utilizing campus resources. 3. Reflect on the importance of building connections and community for first generation college students. How do support services like Trio and the First Year Advising Center facilitate these connections? 4. Discuss the significance of developing strong study skills, time management, and critical thinking abilities for academic success.   Processing Questions: 1. Consider the common challenges faced by first generation college students. How do these challenges compare to your own experiences? 2. What resources and programs are available at SDSU to help you enhance your academic skills, such as success advising, tutoring, and accountability groups? 3. How can you actively participate in community-building activities and workshops to foster a sense of belonging and support? 4. Consider how faculty and staff can support first generation college students by sharing their own experiences and creating an inclusive classroom environment. What steps can faculty take to create a more supportive and engaging learning environment for all students?

In this episode of the "State of Well-Being" podcast, host Kevin Sackreiter, Executive Director for the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence at South Dakota State University (SDSU), sits down with Janell Davis, Coordinator of Testing Services, and Val Smith, Testing Center Operations Manager. Together, they explore the vital role of the SDSU Testing Center in supporting student success.   Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the primary functions and services provided by the SDSU Testing Center. 2. Explain the importance of the Testing Center in supporting student success and wellbeing. 3. Discuss strategies for advocating for oneself and resolving misunderstandings with faculty. 4. Reflect on the impact of test anxiety on student performance and well-being.   Processing Questions: 1. Reflect on the primary functions and services provided by the SDSU Testing Center. How do these services support academic success? 2. What strategies can you use to advocate for yourself and resolve misunderstandings with faculty? 3. Reflect on the impact of test anxiety on your performance and well-being. What are some strategies to reduce test anxiety and its impact?  

This week, we continue our series on the Opportunity Center Student Success NETwork through a conversation with the Office of Disability Services. The discussion focuses on student accommodations and the role that the Office of Disabiility Services plays in ensuring access for students with disabilities at SDSU.   Learning Outcomes: 1. Describe the responsibilities of the Office of Disability Services in providing student accommodations at SDSU. 2. Discuss the types of accommodations commonly provided and identify the steps involved in obtaining accommodations. 3. Analyze common frustrations faced by students with disabilities and how the office listens and supports them in overcoming these challenges.   Processing Questions: 1. Reflect on the responsibilities of the Office of Disability Services in providing student accommodations. How do these services support the varied needs of students with disabilities? 2. Discuss how faculty and staff can support students with disabilities. How have faculty members impacted your academic journey? 3. How can accommodations alleviate stress and improve students' overall well-being?

In this episode of the "State of Well-Being" podcast, host Kevin Sackreiter, Executive Director for the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence at South Dakota State University (SDSU), engages in a thoughtful conversation with Teresa Seefeldt, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education at SDSU. The focus of their discussion is the transfer student population and how the Student Success Network supports these students as they transition to SDSU. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the key points of contact for transfer students, including the admissions team and the registrar's office. 2. Identify the resources and support services available to transfer students through the Student Success Network. 3. Discuss how transfer students can find their place and build a support network within the university community.   Processing Questions: 1. The podcast discussed academic and social challenges that transfer students may encounter. How do these challenges compare to your own experiences as a student? 2. Consider the role of faculty and staff in supporting transfer students. How have faculty members impacted your academic journey? 3. Reflect on the significance of student engagement and involvement in campus activities and organizations. How can getting involved enhance your sense of belonging at SDSU?

In this episode of the State of Wellbeing podcast, host Kevin Sackreiter, Executive Director for the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence at South Dakota State University (SDSU), sits down with Kirsten Linke, the Director of International Students and Scholars at SDSU. Together, they explore the vital role of the Office of International Affairs in supporting the international student population at SDSU. She also highlights the various study abroad programs available, such as short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long programs, and the unique Jacks Start Abroad program for incoming freshmen.   Learning Outcomes:  1. Describe the mission and services provided by the Office of International Affairs at SDSU. 2. Identify common challenges faced by international students, such as homesickness and navigating campus resources. 3. Outline ways in which faculty and staff can engage with and support international students and scholars.   Processing Questions: 1. Consider the various study abroad programs mentioned, such as short-term faculty-led trips and the Jack Start Abroad program. How do these opportunities contribute to a student's personal and academic growth? 2. Reflect on the importance of connecting international students to the SDSU and Brookings community. How do cultural events and campus partnerships facilitate this connection? 3. What support systems have been most effective for you in overcoming academic or personal challenges?

Join Caitlin Walters, the wellbeing specialist at South Dakota State University, and Bruce Johnson, faculty in the Ness School of Management and Economics, in this episode of "State of Wellbeing." This episode is part of a financial literacy and wellness series, focusing on the practical aspects of managing shared expenses and resolving conflicts with roommates. Learning Objectives: 1. Listeners will be able to identify two resources for tracking shared expenses with their roommates. 2. Listeners will be able to identify two tips for improving communication when it comes to expenses. Processing Questions: 1. How can you navigate conflict and difficult conversations with a roommate about shared expenses? 2. What is one tool you can use to track shared expenses?

Our financial wellness series continues this week with a discussion on bill payments with Axton Betz-Hamilton from the Ness School of Management and Economics. Dr. Betz-Hamilton discusses the types of bills students and graduates can expect and the consequences of falling beyond in your bills. Learning Outcomes: 1. Listeners will be able to differentiate between fixed bills and variable bills. 2. Listeners will be able to identify two resources to support people who are struggling to pay a bill on time. Processing Questions: 1. What are two suggestions discussed to manage bill payments? 2. What are two things that can happen if you fail to pay your bills on time?

With commencement just around the corner, you may be thinking about how to manage your finances as you transition from college to career. In this episode, Lorna Saboe Wounded Head from SDSU Extension discusses budgeting for life after college.   Learning Outcomes: 1. Listeners will be able to identify two resources to help them keep track of their budget after college. 2. Listeners will be able to identify two habits to avoid when it comes to financial responsibility.   Processing Questions: 1. What are two habits students should keep an eye out for when it comes to managing their finances? 2. What are two resources available to help track money and balance spending?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Caitlin Walters and guest Lisa Marotz, the Director of McCrory Gardens, explore the concept of Environmental Wellness and share practical ways students, faculty, and staff can enhance it in their daily lives. They highlight the benefits of spending time in nature and discuss how caring for our personal spaces can contribute to a healthier environment overall.    Learning Outcomes: 1. Define environmental wellness. 2. Identify two ways to practice mindfulness in nature. 3. Identify two benefits of time spent outside.   Processing Questions: 1. What is environmental wellness, and how do you define it? 2. What are two ways you can improve your own environmental wellness using tools and resources in the Brookings area?

This week, we come back to our series on the Opportunity Center Student Success NETwork. Dr. Chris Larson, Noah Roerig, and Jaritza Cazares Cruz discuss how the Van D. and Barbara B. Fishback Honors College and the Honors College Student Organization support student success and wellbeing at SDSU.   Learning Objectives: 1. Discuss how honors courses foster deeper understanding and community among students. 2. Outline the initiatives and activities designed to connect honors students with the campus and Brookings community. 3. Reflect on the challenges faced by honors students and how the Honors College addresses these challenges.   Processing Questions: 1. How does the Fishback Honors College contribute to the holistic development of students at SDSU? 2. Consider the role of faculty in supporting honors students. How have faculty members impacted your academic journey? 3. What types of events or activities would you like to see in your academic environment to foster engagement and well-being?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Cody Burggraff, Director of Student Programs at South Dakota State University, to explore the vital role of new student orientation in fostering a sense of belonging and connection on campus. They discuss the challenges new students face, from information overload to navigating a new environment, and how SDSU supports them through orientation leaders and a wide range of campus organizations. Tune in to learn about the importance of building connections, finding your place at SDSU, and how getting involved can enhance student well-being and success.   Learning Objectives: 1. Listeners will describe the purpose and structure of new student orientation at SDSU.  2. Listeners will explore ways to engage with peers, faculty, and staff to foster connections and build a sense of community. 3. Listeners will articulate the value of relationships with faculty, staff, and peers in their overall college experience.   Processing Questions: 1. What are some ways you have - or plan to - build connections at SDSU? 2. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by new information in a school or work setting? How did you handle it? 3. What actions can you take to become more involved in campus activities and leadership opportunities? 4. How can faculty, staff and peers contribute to a student's sense of belonging on campus?

In this episode of State of Wellbeing, host Kevin Sackreiter sits down with Russ Chavez, Director of the Veterans Affairs and Resource Center at South Dakota State University (SDSU), to discuss the crucial role the center plays in supporting student veterans, service members, and their families. Listeners will gain insight into the transition process for veterans entering higher education, common challenges student veterans face, and accessing wellbeing resources.   Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the mission and services of SDSU's Veterans Affairs and Resource Center in supporting student veterans, service members, and military-connected students. 2. Discuss the transition difficulties veterans may face when moving from military service to a university setting. 3. Identify mental health resources available to student veterans, including SDSU Counseling Services and VA-affiliated support.   Processing Questions: 1. How do events like Warrior Wellness Week and the Veterans Retreat contribute to the wellbeing of student veterans? 2. What mental health and wellbeing resources are available to veterans at SDSU, and how can they be accessed? 3. How can faculty and staff make their classrooms more welcoming and supportive for student veterans?