A student came to see me during office hours last week. He was agitated and upset; although he had been a Valedictorian at his high school, he was having a difficult time adjusting to life at Valemont.

The academic and the social pressure that accompanies attending an exclusive school can feel endless. What I said to that student, and what I say to you now is that you were accepted to Valemont because we know that you are not only capable of withstanding the high demands that we place on you, but you were born to do so.

While Valemont can seem overly rigorous and structured at times, I assure you that the rules exist for a reason. There are students who think they can take shortcuts or bypass these rules. But I implore you to trust our venerable institution and it will take care of you, just like it has been taking care of students since 1646.

Peer groups are forming for those students who are having a difficult time dealing with the stress. They will meet every Wednesday and Friday at 5pm in the Lecture Hall, room 205. A trained staff member from the Sanitarium will be on hand to guide these sessions.

As always, I will be available during office hours if you need me.

Best regards,

Prof. Blunt