Issue 57
Feb 2026
STUDENT MATTERS
The NUS Medicine Office for Students provides holistic support to enhance the well-being of Medicine students throughout their medical school journey. In partnership with the NUS Office of Student Affairs (OSA), organiser of the annual WellNUS Festival, the Office for Students offers wellness activities that foster well-being, creativity, and community—encouraging students to integrate self-care into everyday life, rather than turning to it only when they are running low.
On 31 October 2025, NUS Medicine students had the opportunity to participate in “Take A Paws”, a dog therapy programme featuring The Dogtors, a local organisation specialising in animal-assisted interactions and interventions. The 20-minute sessions with the dogs and trainers delivered emotional, physiological, mental and social benefits, including improved mood and reduced anxiety and stress. The event was a howling success, with many students sharing that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience and are keen for more of such activities organised by the School.
The event also highlighted the seven PitStop Principles—Personal Skills, Interaction, Time-Out, Sleep, Thoughtful Eating, On the Move and Purpose. These principles offer evidence-based strategies for stress management and self-care. Students were also reminded of campus resources such as PitStops on Campus, where they can pause, unwind and recharge amid busy schedules, alongside a wide range of support services available across the University.
For more information about the resources and services mentioned, click to visit the following websites:
PitStop Principles
NUS Student Support Resources
The Dogtors (Animal-Assisted Interventions)
More from this issue