BU's Women's Resource Center is holding their annual Women's Wit & Wisdom workshops throughout the spring semester. Each workshop is aimed towards women to provide them with information that goes above and beyond the classroom. The workshops are informal, and important because they are what the students have asked for through the years.
But don't be fooled. Just because the title implies that these workshops are for women, doesn't mean that men can't be involved as well. Every sign states that "all are welcome." Deborah Barnes, coordinator of the Women's Resource Center, says, "There have been times when there's been more men than women." On occasion, sessions have been closed to men upon request, but this is rare.
"I think just giving women a safe place where they can discuss these issues gives women their voice," Barnes says.
The workshops are held in Resource Center, and turnout varies. If the area becomes too crowded, they have a room reserved in Old Science. It all depends on the subject matter, sometimes they only have three or four people show up, while other times, they've had upwards of 40.
Their main, and most important goal, is to empower women, through gaining self-confidence, helping them to be proactive in their health and their lives, teaching them to speak up for themselves, and teaching them to be leaders. The mood of the sessions generally depend on the dynamics of the people who come, the speakers who present, and the topic at hand, however, they are always comfortable and relaxed. Lauren Lewis, a graduate student who works in the office, says, "We always have food. That's important."
Here's a look at some of the upcoming events:
March 3: Skin Cancer Awareness
This workshop is held every year to remind students about skin cancer prevention prior to spring break. The goal is prevention, with an emphasis put on the dangers of tanning booths. Symptoms of skin cancer will also be touched upon. Karen Maurer, from the American Cancer Society, will be speaking, along with Cindy Rupp from Columbia Montour Family Health. Rupp will be bringing with her a "skin scope", a device that will allow students to look at their own skin and see how the sun has affected them.
March 16: Simply Fit
Jen White from the Student Rec Center will speak about the basics of exercising. She will touch upon all aspects of fitness, and teach students how to develop a good workout routine.
March 22: Self-Defense with BU Police Department
This workshop has yet to be advertised and isn't on the Women's Wit & Wisdom signs. Belinda DeLeon will teach students simple self-defense moves.
March 30: Sexual Assault Awareness
This important workshop teaches what every student needs to know: how to stay safe, what to do if you become a victim, how to get help, and how to recognize and stay safe from date rape drugs. Another important focus is what to do if someone you know has been a victim, with the main focus being to never blame the victim. Taylor Ruk from the Women's Center will be speaking. This workshop is in conjunction with Take Back The Night, held April 17. There will be a speaker, and a candle lit vigil for all the victims of sexual assaults.
April 5: Life After BU
Dr. Mark Bauman, Professor in the master's program, will speak at this workshop aimed towards upperclassman. Focus will be on graduate school options, and how to find one that fits your needs and career goals.
April 19: Dreamin' The Night Away: Simple Steps To Dream Interpretation
Dr. Fran Kendris, Program Coordinator of Master's in Counseling, will speak at this workshop. Discussion will be about symbolism in dreams, and subconscious signs that repeat and may make sleep difficult. Other topics discussed will be the stages of sleep, and sleep disorders.
April 20: Supermarket Savvy: How To Shop For Health & Wealth
Carrie Edwards, a registered dietitian, will speak to students about healthy eating, reading lables, and counting calories. The workshop is aimed towards students without a lot of resources available, and will help not just with purchasing healthy foods, but also cost effective foods.
Barnes sums the workshops up by saying, "All topics are timely, there's a variety to meet anyone's interests, and they are an informal, relaxed way for students to gain more knowledge." All programs are held from 5 p.m.-6 p.m. in the Women's Resource Center in Schuylkill Hall. Again, ALL are welcome, and there will be free refreshments and giveaways.
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