Here Comes the Sun

“Here comes the sun… and I say, it’s alright.”

After months of gray skies, freezing winds, and speed-walking across campus in your winter coat, sunshine finally begins to make its return. Trees are blooming, flowers are pushing through the soil, and campus feels alive again. Mother Nature is officially awake, and honestly, it’s about time.

For many Boilermakers, May also marks graduation season; a time of celebration, reflection, and new beginnings. Families gather for outdoor ceremonies, photos fill your camera roll, and long afternoons are spent soaking in the moment after months (or years) of hard work. It’s a season worth celebrating! While sunshine can boost mood, improve sleep cycles, and encourage us to spend more time outdoors, too much unprotected sun exposure can quickly turn a great day into an uncomfortable one. Sunburns, dehydration, premature skin aging, and long-term skin damage can happen faster than you think, even on cooler or cloudy days.

Before heading outside, protect the skin you’re in. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear sunglasses, stay hydrated, and seek shade when needed. If you’ll be outside for graduation ceremonies, sporting events, or upcoming summer celebrations, remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Wellness Tip: This month, spend time outdoors and enjoy the return of warmer weather, just remember that healthy skin is always in season. A little sunscreen and hydration can go a long way! Carry a water bottle and keep sunscreen in your bag, your future self will thank you. A little side note, put your sunscreen on first – then insect repellant!