State of Wellbeing, a podcast from South Dakota State University

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?

The South Dakota State University Student Health Clinic is dedicated to providing cost-effective, evidence-based health care tailored to students, promoting wellbeing and academic success within an inclusive and respectful setting. Janae Jacobsen, certified nurse practitioner, discusses services provided by the Student Health Clinic.
Learning Objectives:
Listeners will be able to identify at least three services provided by the Student Health Clinic.
Listeners will be able to implement two strategies to support their immune system when returning to campus.
Listeners will be able to locate the Student Health Clinic on campus.
 
Processing questions:
What is one thing you learned about the student health clinic?
What are two ways to support your immune system when returning to campus?
Where is the student health clinic located?

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?

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?