PHOENIX — One recent Arizona State University graduate is feeling a lot of emotions surrounding his final semester coming to an end without a celebration.
"Honestly, there are a lot of ups and downs during the last part of this semester," said Aldwin Galang.
The Bachelor of Science recipient says a roller coaster is how he best describes his emotions over the last few months.
He spent four years intensely studying at Barrett, The Honors College and it all ended without a cap and gown.
"I'm grateful for everything that I had," said Galang.
He is staying positive because it is what his Honors Thesis was all about. Galang needed that research project to earn his degree in Community Health.
"I'm thinking about doing something that will make an actual impact to the student," Galang explained. "Not just like a piece of paper or a research paper that can... people just can read. I wanted to be able to actually make that connection and make an impact."
Galang decided that the stress of college and of everyday life was something he wanted to focus on for his thesis. He created a program about coping skills.
"That's one of the reasons I created the BPRSNT Program," Galang explained. "Pronounced as 'Be Present.'"
That is also how Galang defines being mindful. Mindfulness is a practice that is known to reduce anxiety and increase mood.
Galang created a journal and an online blog to go with the program that has exercises for self-care and stress reduction.
"So every Monday, I have this work-shop," Galang said. "It varies from every single topic from every Monday."
And even though he already has gotten his diploma, Galang teamed up with ASU to do free virtual workshops about mindfulness and coping skills.
"I just love the feeling of making an impact," Galang said.
Galang is now moving to host those Mindful Mondays on Instagram. To follow for next week, click here.