Stall Stories

Let's be real: When you're in a bathroom stall, things can get a little boring. If only there was something to read when doomscrolling just isn't cutting it. That's why we created Stall Stories.

Our friendly squirrels help make health topics a little more interesting, sharing real data about what Spartans do and their perceptions of the campus culture. They also provide tips and resources to help students know where to turn for extra support.

Click the buttons next to each Stall Story preview to download the latest edition, social media graphics and other tools to print, post and share around campus!

An illustrated squirrel lifts a bar weight, with acorns as the weights. The squirrel is sweating and wearing a SpartanFit T-shirt. Text reads, "Why Weights. 41% of MSU students reported doing exercises to strengthen or tone muscles two or more days per week. Did you know? Among other benefits, regular strength training can: Help reduce depression, tension, anxiety and stress; promote flexibility, reducing injury risk; and improve energy levels, self-esteem, focus and cognitive function."

April 2023: Why Weights

Strength training has many benefits, like reducing stress, promoting flexibility and more. In this Stall Story, we give tips for how to get started with strength training to make the most of each exercise. Plus, anyone can follow along with our SPARTANfit exercise video library.

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Illustration of two squirrels, one is dancing and the other is behind him operating a DJ booth. Green background with white text that reads "The party Starts When you party smart 97% of MSU students watch out for friends to make sure they stay safe on St. Patrick’s Day. The "real college experience" doesn't have to include alcohol. 32% of MSU students chose not to drink at all in the last 30 days. Data Source: 2022 MSU U Celebrate Survey, N=843"

March 2023: The Party Starts When You Party Smart

The best part of partying is socializing and being with your friends. With that in mind, watch out for each other! If you see your friend drinking too much or too quickly, slow them down. Water, food and dancing are all good ways to take the focus off alcohol. Your friend will appreciate your efforts later, even if they don’t in the moment.

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An illustrated squirrel looking sad while wearing a backpack and beanie. It stands near a window with falling snow outside. Text reads, "Winter blues? 87% of MSU students reported feeling overwhelmed at least once in the past year."

January 2023: Winter Blues

Shorter days and less light can sometimes affect mood. Plus, getting back into the rhythm of a semester can be tough. But you’re not alone. Eighty-seven percent of MSU students reported feeling overwhelmed at least once in the past year.

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An illustration of a squirrel who looks sick, holding a cup of hot liquid. Text reads (MANAGING COLDS & THE FLU , 37% of msu students experienced a cold or the flu in the last year.1"

December 2022: Managing Colds & The Flu

More than one in 10 MSU students reported that a cold or the flu had a negative impact on their academics in the past year. Getting an annual flu shot, washing hands regularly, and staying home when sick are some of the ways you can reduce the risk of getting sick or passing illness to others. Check out the latest Stall Story all about cold and flu.

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An illustration of a very sleepy squirrel. The text reads "Leave it Unread When Tucked Into Bed More sleep can lead to better grades 1 in 2 MSU students reported experiencing sleep difficulties in the past year. 21% reported that it seriously affected their academic performance."

November 2022: Leave It Unread When Tucked Into Bed

Good sleep is key for academic success. In this stall story, we share insight into what could cause poor sleep quality — and tips for getting better sleep.

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An illustrated duck and squirrel enjoy a noodle meal. Text reads, "Relationships can be challenging. Disagreements happen. Often, conflicts can be resolved early on through respectful conversation. 87% of MSU students reported that their social relationships are supportive and rewarding."

October 2022: Relationships Can Be Challenging

Most students find that their social relationships are rewarding. But disagreements happen. In this Stall Story, we share tips for resolving conflicts respectfully.

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An illustrated rubber duck sits atop a circle. Most of the duck is colored in like a thermometer. Text reads, "71% of MSU students drink 0-4 alcoholic drinks when they party. About half limit themselves to one or two drinks."

September 2022: The Party Starts When You Party Smart

The vast majority of students party responsibly. In this Stall Story, we share the reality of alcohol use among MSU students and what to do if someone has had too much.

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August 2022: We're In This Together

It's normal for students to feel overwhelmed when they move to campus. In this Stall Story, we share the proportion of students that feel a sense of belonging — and how to connect with others as they settle into life in East Lansing

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