#experiencewithoutboundaries

To support IPO students’ wellbeing during the exam period, Interdiscplinary Programs Office (IPO) organized an Exam Cheering Week from 7-10 Dec, with dog buddy sessions and snacks giveaway.

Emotional support from animals such as dogs provide therapeutic companionship and can bring a smile and sense of calmness to students dealing with stress. In light of the Fall term exam period, IPO collaborated with Dean of Student’s Office (DSTO)’s Comfort Paws Program to schedule three mingling sessions for IPO students, one open session and two private sessions for small groups registration. Luna, a Shiba Inu, and Bruno, a German Shepherd, visited the IPO Learning Commons in the afternoon on 7 an d 9 Dec  and brought a lot of smiles to the IPO students. Almost 40 students attended the open session on 7 Dec in IPO Learning Commons A. The two dogs also met with a total of 32 students at private sessions on 9 Dec in IPO Learning Commons B. They gave a lot of fluffy hugs to support and soothe students’ mind during the stressful exam period. Students felt calm, relax and joyful while petting and playing with the dogs.

In addition to the dog buddy session, students also dropped by the IPO General Office to get different snacks and drinks to fuel themselves in preparation for the upcoming exam and final projects. IPO will continue to support students’ emotional wellbeing as always. You are welcome to drop by the IPO General Office to chat with us or make an appointment with our Career Advisors (Ms Vanessa CHAN: vanchan@ust.hk / Ms Joanne WONG: wongjoanne@ust.hk) for an one-on-one advising session.