Student Support
Pursuing a DDS degree requires a substantial investment of time, effort, intellectual energy and financial resources. At UB, we are keenly aware (and appreciative) of these investments. Whether you need help adjusting to dental school, or you just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you.
Wellness
Our Student Wellness Committee organizes a variety of activities to help students take a break from the academics. Here at UB we offer many services that help students relax from schoolwork and encourage a positive healthy lifestyle.
Fruit and Healthy Snacks
- Fresh fruit is distributed weekly in the dental student lounge.
- This initiative encourages healthier eating habits and offers nutritious snack alternatives throughout the school day.
Therapy Dogs
- Therapy dogs are available for students to enjoy during lunch hours throughout the academic year.
- Spending time with the dogs helps reduce stress—students often leave these visits feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on their afternoon classes.
Workout Sessions
- Group workout classes are offered throughout the year to promote physical wellness and stress relief.
- These classes provide students with an opportunity to stay active, improve focus, and maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal well-being.
Finals Study Break
- Midterms and finals can be stressful for all students.
- At UB School of Dental Medicine, we offer study breaks featuring refreshments such as veggies and dip, Greek yogurt, granola bars, and fruit juice.
- These breaks encourage students to pause, recharge, and prioritize their well-being while preparing for exams.
Recreation Room
- The Recreation Room offers students a place to unwind and enjoy some downtime by playing ping pong, foosball, or pool with their peers.
- It serves as a welcoming space to take a break from studying, socialize, and recharge between classes.
- Whether it’s a quick game or a friendly tournament, the Recreation Room helps foster community and balance in the busy lives of dental students.
Board Games
- Board games are available in the Student Lounge for students to enjoy during breaks or downtime.
- Playing board games offers a fun way to relax, connect with classmates, and take a mental break from studying while building teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Sports Club
- UB offers students a wide variety of sports at both the club and intramural levels. These leagues provide an excellent opportunity to stay active, have fun, and build lasting friendships with classmates.
- Whether you’re interested in competitive play or just looking to unwind, there’s something for everyone—from basketball, soccer, and volleyball to ultimate frisbee and flag football.
- Participating in these activities promotes teamwork, stress relief, and a healthy balance between academics and recreation.
Wellness Journals
- Wellness journals provide an excellent tool for managing stress, setting personal goals, and reflecting on daily experiences.
- By taking a few minutes each day to write about thoughts, challenges, and accomplishments, students can improve mindfulness, emotional awareness, and overall well-being.
- Journaling encourages balance and resilience, helping students maintain a positive mindset throughout their dental education.
UB Run for Smiles 5K
- The UB School of Dental Medicine Run for Smiles 5K is a community fundraiser that brings together dental students and local participants to raise money for the CARES and BOCA programs.
- This event not only supports important causes but also encourages students to engage in physical activity and promote wellness while giving back.
Yoga
- Yoga is an effective way to promote mental relaxation and overall well-being.
- Free yoga sessions are offered to help students enhance both their physical and mental health.
- These sessions provide an opportunity to move the body, tune in to physical sensations, and release built-up tension.
Mental Health Days
- Our administration recognizes the rigorous demands of the dental school curriculum and the impact it can have on student well-being.
- To support mental health, students are allowed to take a designated Mental Health Day for self-care, reflection, and rest. These days provide an important opportunity to step back, reset, and focus on personal well-being, helping students return to their studies with renewed energy, reduced stress, and a refreshed mindset.
- By prioritizing mental health, the school fosters a balanced, supportive learning environment that encourages long-term resilience and academic success.
UB Student Health Services
- University Student Health Services provides comprehensive medical care and wellness support for students, offering everything from routine check-ups and immunizations to treatment for illness and injury.
- In addition to physical health services, they provide resources for preventive care, health education, and counseling, helping students maintain overall well-being.
- By offering accessible, high-quality healthcare on campus, University Health Services ensures that students can focus on their academic and personal goals while staying healthy and supported throughout their time at the university.