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Hello, everyone! We’re really getting close to finishing the semester now;Ìýand with finals approaching, be sure youÌýtake some time to de-stress and have fun at some of ourÌýevents this week before the study grind completely sets in.

This week brings a discussion of the Middle Eastern experience in America, a talk withÌýthe first transgender male Olympic athlete Chris Mosier, a DIY stress balls event, Get to Know Your Green Buddies,ÌýWinter Housing Fair, therapy dogs at the libraries, Winter Grad Bash, gingerbread-house decorating at the semester's last International Coffee Hour,Ìýthe annual Holiday Festival and free community ice skating at Central Park.

Tuesday, Dec. 5

From 4:30 to 6 p.m., the Dennis Small Cultural Center will host a discussion on the experience and effects of being Middle Eastern in today’s American society. This event will take place in UMC 204 and is free and open to all.

The Conference on World Affairs welcomes the first transgender male Olympic athlete Chris Mosier to speak about positive change in the Olympics. Triathlete Mosier will speak from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Wittemyer Courtroom of Wolf Law. This event is free, and all are invited, but you should RSVP online in advance.

Wednesday, Dec. 6

With finals looming, take some time off to make your very own stress ball. Hosted by the Dennis Small Cultural CenterÌýfrom 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.Ìýin UMC 204, this free DIY workshop will also feature a discussion about stress-management techniques and self-awareness.

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Come get to know the like-minded individuals around campus who also want to see a more environmentally friendly and sustainable ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ (and world)! From 6 to 8 p.m., come enjoy a free dinner in the British Studies Room (Norlin M549) and some conversation centering around the environment and a greener campus.

Housing Fair

Looking for a new place to live next semester? Then swing by the Winter Housing Fair to familiarize yourself with Ralphie’s List, check out some properties for rentÌýand get some free hot chocolate and legal advice. The fair will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Williams Village Center Multipurpose Room and is free to attend.

Thursday, Dec. 7

Bark Buddies at Norlin Library

Many a day I have thought, I’d really enjoy school so much more if there were dogs to play with in the middle of the day. Well, wish granted! From 1 to 3 p.m. in Norlin Library,Ìýthere will be a bunch of super cute and friendly dogs to snuggle up to, as well as other fun activities to help you de-stress. There will also be other Bark Buddies events throughout the week, so to find out how to maximize your time playing with these fur babies.

Friday, Dec. 8

If, like me, you are looking forward to graduating this December, then celebrate with The Herd’s Winter Grad Bash at the Koenig Alumni Center. There will be free food and drinks (bring an ID) and tons of activities and free giveaways, so don’t miss out!

‘Tis the season to make cookies and shape them into miniature houses topped with candy decorations, so partake in this classic American holiday tradition with the CU International Student and Scholars Service at the semester's last International Coffee Hour.ÌýThere will be free food and coffee, as well as new friends to meet. Join between 4 and 5:30 p.m. in C4CÌýS355.

Get in the holiday spirit at 7:30 p.m. with ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ annual Holiday Festival in Macky Auditorium, which features festive décor and some of the most incredibly talented musicians at this school performing holiday classics. Tickets for this fun concert start at $20.

Saturday, Dec. 9

The (Canyon BoulevardÌýand 13th Street) is holding a free afternoon of skating from 2 to 4 p.m. for all community members, so come one and all to show off your fancy twirling moves or learn this fun activity for the first time. Hint: This is an excellent place to burn off a bit of steam and have some fun before finals.