School is back in session. Among the many projects that are required for each course, students are often encouraged to go outside or make sure they are managing their stress. I always wonder how professors can say that with a straight face. "Make sure you complete your reading assignments, quizzes and start your research project before our next meeting, but don't forget to enjoy this beautiful weather we have today!" Whether they are poking fun at the fact that the work load is a mountain of tedious, sometimes unnecessary, tasks or not, there is no denying that keeping your stress in check is a critical part of college. I know sometimes it doesn't seem like it, but even in small-town Clarion, there are plenty of resources for students to utilize for their benefit.

Are you an artsy person? Do you enjoy to play the piano or sing a few songs when you get the chance? Well, good friend, have you considered venturing the halls of Boyd? On the building's second floor, there are practice rooms available to students. These rooms consist of, typically, one piano. These rooms lock, and they retain sound really well if you are a bashful musician.

I hear you, "Joe, music isn't my thing. What else is out there for me?" Don't worry, my dear pal, there is still UAB. The university's activities board (UAB) plans events for students pretty much every weekend. Recent activities have included: miniature golf, open mic night, sand art and bingo. The best part is, this organization has an operation budget that students pay for. Have you ever heard of the activities fee that students pay? Guess where that goes? This translates into events that you don't have to pay for because you already chipped in.

Sometimes people just need to leave work at work and get off campus. For the lucky few who have a car, we are only a short trip away from Cook's Forest. This wonderful, wilderness atmosphere consists of multiple trails for guests to travel and a lovely river that people can float, canoe, or kayak down. For the unfortunate ones who don't possess a vehicle, the city of Clarion can fulfill your restless spirit for journeys. The neighborhoods in town are usually kept clean, and Clarion is the Autumn Leaf capital for a reason. Wandering through streets of trees that have lost their cool, green colors for fiery, warm ones can be just what the doctors ordered....haha...doctors....college...haha.

There are a plethora of other alternatives I haven't mentioned, but the ones I did mention cost almost nothing. The only pass-time that costs anything would either be the gas to Cook's Forest or renting some river worthy vessel from them. All the others are open to students' uses for no cost, it is just about getting to the places on time. De-stressing is an essential part of the semester. It must be, or else our instructors wouldn't bring it up in class. Now that you know where to begin, it is time to take the next step and relax.