The Peel — Fall Edition

Fall is the season of new beginnings — new classes, new routines, and sometimes, new stressors. But it’s also the perfect moment to slow down, check in with yourself, and make intentional changes that support your energy and focus. Think of it less as a complete overhaul and more as a gradual reset: swapping out little habits that drain you for ones that restore you.

This week’s Peel is about creating balance where you need it most — from your study space to your meals, and even your mindset. Remember, small steps add up. And if you’re looking to take the next step in your clinical journey, Grapefruit Health is accepting applications now. It’s a flexible way to gain paid clinical experience while staying on top of your coursework.

Scholarship Spotlight 💸

Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association (FNSNA) Scholarships

Good news for RN and BSN students — the 2026 FNSNA Scholarship application opens September 8! Awards cover up to $10,000 and support nursing students who show academic excellence, financial need, and commitment to leadership or community health.

This is one of the biggest undergraduate nursing scholarship programs, so it’s worth preparing early. A strong application will highlight your involvement in student nursing associations, volunteer work, or other ways you’ve contributed to the nursing community.

⏰ Key Date: Applications open September 8. Don’t wait until then to get ready — now is the time to gather transcripts, polish your résumé, and line up recommendation letters.

Meal Prep Corner 🧑‍🍳

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated — sometimes the simplest meals are the most satisfying. When you’re balancing school, clinicals, and everything else, the best recipes are the ones you can pull together quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

• Broccoli Stir-Fry 🌱 — A 20-minute veggie-packed meal with ginger, garlic, and sesame flavors. Perfect over rice or noodles.

• Lentil Soup 🥣 — A hearty, protein-rich option that’s inexpensive and makes plenty of leftovers. Pair with bread for an easy study-night dinner.

• Sheet Pan Gnocchi 🍅 — Toss gnocchi, cherry tomatoes, and veggies on one pan, roast, and you’ve got a full meal in under 30 minutes.

• Chili 🌶 — Comfort food that can simmer while you study. Make a big batch and freeze portions for later.

Tip: Bookmark the full list and pick one new recipe each week — it’s an easy way to break up the “ramen and takeout” cycle while still keeping things realistic for a student schedule.

NCLEX Preparation

Question of the Week 📚

Study Space Refresh 🫧

The space where you study or work makes a huge difference in how focused (or distracted) you feel. You don’t need to spend money on a full redesign — small adjustments can completely shift your environment.

Start by decluttering your desk. Old notes, random papers, and yesterday’s coffee cup can signal “unfinished business” to your brain, making it harder to concentrate. Try clearing everything off at the end of the day so you return to a clean slate.

Add a few intentional touches to make your space inviting:

• Plants: Research shows greenery can lower stress and improve focus. Even one small plant can freshen up your desk.

• Lighting: Natural light is ideal, but if that’s not possible, use a warm desk lamp to reduce eye strain and boost your mood.

• Scent: A candle or diffuser can help your brain “switch modes” into study time — lavender for calm, citrus for energy.

• Comfort: Adjust your chair, add a cushion, or keep a blanket nearby. Comfort supports focus more than we realize.

Finally, try setting a study routine. If you always sit at your desk around the same time each day, your brain will start associating that space with productivity. That’s how habits stick.

Freshly Squeezed Jokes 🍊

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One Last Thing 💡

Resetting for fall isn’t about being perfect — it’s about building small habits that keep you balanced through the busy weeks ahead. Whether it’s setting up a study space that feels calm, trying a new 20-minute recipe, or bookmarking a scholarship to apply for, each step is a win.

We’ll be back next week with more Fall Reset ideas — until then, keep showing up for yourself, one day at a time.

—
The Grapefruit Health Team