SHARE Circles
SHARE Circles are a group connection and storytelling activity inspired by talking/sharing circles practiced by many indigenous cultures around the world. Circles are great for building community, empathy, and understanding among participants.
How Does it Work?
SHARE Circles can be tailored to any size group around a requested theme that feels most relevant to the members’ current experiences or concerns. We typically send one SHARE Facilitator per every 7-10 students in a group.
The facilitators’ role is to explain the circle process, break everyone into smaller groups, and then lead “circle rounds” by asking one question per round that fits the theme (ex. “How have you changed since starting college?”, “How do you like others to support you when you’re struggling?”). A small item is passed around the circle as a talking piece for each person to have their turn to share uninterrupted.
After the circle rounds, our facilitators bring everyone back together to lead a short closing discussion about what everyone noticed or learned and how they might incorporate it into their community moving forward.
EXAMPLE CIRCLE THEMES
- Adjustment to college life and UT
- Stress management, self-care, or mindfulness
- Hopes, challenges, and/or growth for student employees or organization leaders
- Relationship or friendship experiences
- Career anxiety / future planning
- Common struggles of students in a specific major or program
- Navigating self-image concerns or social comparison
...Or anything else you can think of that feels relevant to your group!
Here’s what students have been saying about their SHARE Circle experiences:
I enjoyed being vulnerable with my classmates and learning that while everyone is struggling in their own ways, they are finding ways to cope.
The facilitators were super kind and fun. They created a comfortable space for everyone to talk. It was nice to hear about their experiences in the discussion, too.
I felt like I was being heard and was able to speak my mind without feeling uncomfortable. I was given the chance to get things off my chest and share things that I didn't even know needed to be shared.
Because it was such personal storytelling, I was completely “in the moment” enjoying myself and not worrying about outside responsibilities.
This was a shockingly good team building experience!
Request a SHARE Circle
Note: SHARE Circles are listed as one of the options on the Longhorn Wellness Center’s general workshop request form.
Please note that most Circles need two weeks’ notice to schedule, and may be requested for a minimum of 25 to a maximum of 90 minutes. SHARE staff will reach out within 2-4 business days of receiving each request to confirm the date, location, and theme, and to help answer any questions you may have.
Still have questions?
We’re here to help you create the best SHARE Circle experience for your class, FIG, residence hall, student organization, student staff, or any other group of peers! Email us at longhornshareproject@utexas.edu.