Students blog

Getting injured during summer break was not on my agenda. I had envisioned an active summer filled with walks, gym sessions, and trips to the park with my kids – anything that kept me moving.

But life had other plans, and a fall left me with three stitches below my knee. While the injury wasn’t severe, it was enough to sideline my plans and force me to rethink how I could make the most of my summer break.

Here are my tips for overcoming an unexpected injury and salvaging your summer.

Pause: Protect Your Mental Health

As I sat in the emergency room, all I could think about were the activities I wouldn’t be able to do. The realization hit me hard. As my plans unraveled, I felt overwhelmed, sad, and defeated.

That wave of defeat brought a flood of emotions I couldn’t ignore. It forced me to pause and reflect on my mental health.

Journaling became a quiet but powerful tool, helping me track small wins each week and stay connected to my progress. I also allowed myself to be vulnerable and accept help when it was offered. I’ve learned that this isn’t a sign of weakness but a strength in the healing process.

Pivot: Prioritize Healing

Even though my injury wasn’t as severe as it could have been, it still came as a shock. I felt discouraged and disappointed, but I quickly realized that prioritizing my healing was essential for both me and my family.

It’s frustrating when your plans suddenly revolve around limitations. My summer goals included staying active, hitting the gym, starting a jogging routine, and keeping my kids active every day. But with the injury, I had to pivot and adjust my expectations. I adapted and found different ways to stay engaged and make the summer enjoyable while respecting the healing process.

I’ve learned that progress isn’t about pushing through pain. It’s about listening to your body, adapting to the situation, and following your doctor’s guidance to support a full recovery. Summer doesn’t have to come to a halt; it can simply take a more mindful and intentional path.

Adapt: Focus on Low-Impact Activities

Although my injury wasn’t major, the stitches on my knee made it painful to walk, bend my leg, or climb stairs. Despite these limitations, I still wanted movement. Even something as simple as stepping outside for fresh air became a small but meaningful effort. I attended most of my son’s baseball games, which did wonders for my mental health.

Rather than dwelling on what I couldn’t do, I focused on what I could do. Walking wasn’t an option, but I still found joy in sitting outside with my laptop, catching up on schoolwork, and watching my kids run around the yard. Those slower, quieter moments brought me a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Resilience through Recovery

An injury might change your summer, but it doesn’t have to ruin it. You can replace a summer of high-energy plans with one of intentional engagement. Embrace new, low-impact activities while prioritizing your healing and mental health.

Overcoming a setback like this can be about more than just healing your body. It can be a path to discovering your resilience and finding peace even when things don’t go as planned.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

At age seven, my life changed after reading a poem called "The Voice" by Shel Silverstein [1]. That moment was transformative because I realized I had autonomy. I discovered something within myself that no one else could take away: my voice.

Poetry became an outlet to express myself, turning my thoughts into words. Words became my first love. Though there was never an official wedding, I vowed to use them for good, through better and worse.

Emotional Empowerment Through Poetry

Through good times and bad, poetry empowers me. It provides a safe place to go when my emotions feel too big to hold. It brings me peace when I feel so happy that I want to shout my feelings at the sky. And it grounds me when my mind becomes tangled with too many thoughts to sort through.

Emotions aren't always as straightforward as our language implies; sometimes, they're more like a weather report. You might say you feel happy, but "mostly sunny" might be a more accurate description. Or maybe you don't exactly feel sad, so "foggy" would capture it better. On days when my emotions feel like this, I turn to poetry.

The Sparks of Creativity

When I'm particularly overwhelmed, I search online for a poetry prompt that resonates with me. Then, I do my best to release any negativity I'm experiencing. In moments like these, poetry gives me the power to transform my internal atmosphere. A few stanzas can turn an emotional storm into a lightning show: something electric and captivating.

There are also days when I feel so happy it's like I'm carrying a tiny (but intense) ball of sunshine. I might want to set it down somewhere, but I need to find a safe place to put it. This is where poetry grants me the power of peace, knowing that my happiness is preserved on paper.

What excites me even more than this peace of mind is the opportunity to share that happiness with someone else. I feel powerful knowing my big feelings can bring light to someone who needs the positivity.

Power through Purpose and Expression

Of course, we've all had days when we felt like we were carrying a ball of sunshine while a storm raged inside our heads. For me, this feels like my mind is knotted, and I'm not sure how to untangle it. Although this can leave me feeling powerless, I pick up my pen and let the words do the rest.

One word at a time, one sentence at a time, I untangle my thoughts like strings in a ball of yarn. And my poetry is the sweater I knit from those strings. I create something useful, something meaningful. That creation makes me feel powerful and purposeful.

Find Your Creative Outlet

Whether it's poetry, music, acting, or sports, I believe it's essential for everyone to have a creative outlet that makes them feel powerful. There's a common misconception that you must be "good" at something to enjoy it. In reality, the practice of self-expression is more important than the final product.

I hope this blog inspires you to find your voice through a creative outlet. Everyone deserves the power of autonomy and self-expression, especially in moments when we would otherwise feel powerless.

[1] Silverstein, Shel. Where the Sidewalk Ends. New York: Harper & Row, 1974.

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When I joined my college’s music production club, I thought I was simply pursuing a personal passion. I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with beats, layering sounds, and figuring out how different pieces of music come together. I did it purely for fun, as a creative break from classes and assignments.

But over time, I noticed something surprising: the same skills I was honing in the studio were showing up in my classes, group projects, and even internships.

At first, the club felt like a totally separate world. We’d meet in a small room filled with cables, keyboards, and speakers. There, we would bounce ideas off each other, working to turn rough ideas into polished tracks.

I thought I was just learning how to make music. I didn’t realize I was also learning how to collaborate.

The Rhythm of Collaboration

Producing music with a group teaches you timing, both musically and in how you interact with others. You learn how to listen, when to speak up, and when to step back. You learn that great tracks stem from collaboration, not from one person controlling the sound.

That exact mindset helped me become a better teammate in academic group work. I began communicating more clearly and offering more constructive feedback. I also became more open to letting go of my own ideas if another approach worked better.

Patience in Production

Another unexpected takeaway from music production was patience. When you’re mixing a track, it never sounds perfect on the first attempt. You adjust one sound, then another, and often go back to revise something you already “finished.”

This trial-and-error process made me more comfortable with revising my work in school. Whether it was an essay, a presentation, or a project, I stopped striving for perfection on the first try. Instead, I learned to trust the process, just as I do in the studio.

Confidence in Communication

Even public speaking felt less intimidating. I used to get nervous presenting in class, but explaining beats and sound design choices to my club members helped me find confidence in my voice.

When you talk about something you’re passionate about, you naturally become a better communicator. That skill started spilling over into all areas of my life.

Transferable Skills in Hobbies

I joined the music production club because I liked making beats. I stayed because it helped me grow in ways I never anticipated.

I learned how to collaborate, how to be patient with my work, and how to express my ideas with confidence. What started as a fun, creative outlet became a transformation in the way I approach school, group settings, and even my professional life.

If you have something you love doing outside of class, don’t underestimate its value. You might think it’s just a hobby, but it could teach you more than you realize.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Hi, I'm Aissa! I’m currently studying business administration with a concentration in accounting at Tuskegee University. I’ve always had a love for numbers and organization, which is what drew me to accounting. However, my passion doesn't stop my college experience; there has been a balance of academic rigor and active involvement in campus life, helping me grow in ways I never imagined.

Since starting at Tuskegee, I’ve engaged with clubs and organizations that have shaped my college experience and made the transition from being far away from home so much easier. One of my proudest achievements so far has been becoming the National Business Manager for UNCF (United Negro College Fund). This role allows me to contribute to an incredible cause by helping to raise funds and awareness for scholarships that support all college students.

In addition to being on a national board, I serve as the treasurer for several organizations on campus: the NAACP, the Pre-Alumni Council, and the Ohio Club. Managing finances for these groups has given me real-world experience and allowed me to give back to the community that’s supported me. I also hold the position of Social Media Chair for the Entrepreneurial and Leadership Club, where I get to combine my love for organization with my interest in digital communication.

I became a Pearson Campus Ambassador last Fall, and it’s been a fantastic opportunity to engage with other students, promote educational resources, and connect with a broader network. As if all that wasn’t enough, I’m also a Dean's List scholar, which keeps me focused on maintaining high academic standards while juggling my extracurricular responsibilities.

Despite all the commitments, I’ve managed to keep a healthy balance by making time for my friends and family, especially when I need a break from the hustle of daily life. Being so far from home can be tough, but getting involved in campus activities has helped me feel connected, not just to my university, but also to the community I’m building here.

Being active on campus has not only helped me grow personally and professionally but also made adjusting to life away from home a little easier. No matter where life takes me, I am thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to make a positive impact at Tuskegee University, and I’m excited to continue on this journey of growth, leadership, and success.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

As the semester kicks off, staying organized and on top of your coursework is more important than ever. Many students- including myself- choose to take notes on a tablet, and finding the right place to organize those notes is crucial for success. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that suits your needs. That’s why I’ve tested some note-taking apps so you don’t have to! Here are some pros and cons of note-taking apps I’ve used in the past to help you find the perfect fit for you!

Notebook

This app is perfect for typing notes and is fully compatible with digital pencils, making it easy to take handwritten notes as well. You can enrich your notes by adding text, images, audio recordings, and sketches, offering a versatile way to capture information. Each course can be organized into larger notebooks, keeping everything neatly categorized. While you can’t customize the paper type, you can select unique covers for your notebooks and assign colors to each note, giving your study materials a personalized touch. Best of all, you have access to unlimited notes and notebooks for free, making it an excellent choice for students.

CollaNote

This app is my personal favorite for school, and I absolutely love it for all the features you get for free! It allows you to add photos, scan documents, insert links, use a calculator, and even add fun stickers to your notes. Whether you prefer typing or using a digital pencil, this app is perfect for both. One of the coolest features is the built-in translation tool, which is a game-changer for studying in different languages. You can easily organize your notes by creating folders for each course, keeping everything neat and accessible. While you can't change the color of your folders, you can customize each note by choosing different paper types and even changing the color of your pencil. The best part? There's no limit to the number of folders or notes you can create, so you’ll never run out of space for all your ideas and study materials!

GoodNotes 6

If you’re looking for something a little bit more sophisticated and are willing to pay $9.99/year (or $29.99 for a one-time purchase), GoodNotes 6 is a great option for you! In the paid version, you have access to unlimited notebooks with lots of customization (max 3 notebooks in the free version). You can choose your paper template, including a variety of grid and lined papers. You can also customize the style and color of your pens, giving you more creative control over your notes. One really cool tool is the search functionality in the paid version, where you can find specific information quickly, even in handwritten notes. You can also import PDFs and annotate them, which is great for reviewing class materials or documents. Both the paid and free versions are compatible with digital pencils. Overall, the paid version unlocks a wealth of additional capabilities that can be incredibly useful for power users, particularly those who need advanced organization, customization, or collaboration tools.

Test out these options for yourself and see what fits your note-taking habits the best this semester! Happy studying!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Just like plants, humans go through seasons of life. With each passing season, it's important to nurture the new growth and make space by removing the old. This sounds simple in poetic terms – but reality is often never as simple. Life gets busy and overwhelming. People, places, and events are constantly changing within the world. In the midst of all the chaos on the outside, sometimes we forget to give attention to our most important responsibility: ourselves. How can we attend to other responsibilities, relationships, and tasks in a productive and efficient manner if we have not yet taken the time to ensure we are in the state to put our best foot forward? When life begins to throw too much my way, the best method I have found to recenter myself is by making time to nurture my inner child. 

What is an inner child? 


The term “inner child” has gained increasing popularity due to social media trends within the last couple of years. Despite its recent rise in use, the term has been floating around in the psychology realm since 1969 after analytical psychologist Carl Jung popularized the phenomenon. In short, the inner child refers to all the childhood experiences that impact how an adult acts later in life. “Wounds” on the inner child are characterized as unattended parts of the psyche that may lead to antisocial behaviors or anxieties (i.e., a longing to be listened to and understood in a conversation). Meanwhile, a healthy inner child has been connected to reduced mental stress and increased creativity.  
 
While a trained cognitive behavioral therapist can help provide professional guidance on methods to fully resolve anxieties stemming from the inner child, inspiration can be taken from some of these methods for short-term resolutions for stress. Here are some of the methods I use to attend to my inner child in stressful situations. 

Tip #1: Get messy and get creative. 


One of my favorite ways to connect with my inner child is through art, specifically finger painting and coloring with crayons. Allowing myself to express my emotions in a messy, unpredictable art form is often a big relief during the times I feel like perfectionism is required. 

Tip #2: Reconnect with family and childhood friends.

Sometimes all we need during a stressful time is a hug or reassurance from a loved one. If you feel like you are running thin, turn to someone you can trust to help refill your cup! 

Tip #3: Take a nap! 


Nap time shouldn’t end at kindergarten. Sometimes a power nap, ideally between 10-30 minutes, is enough to give yourself a short break and unwind from a stressful situation. 

Tip #4: Revisiting a childhood favorite (i.e., show, game, snack, location, etc.). 


This is where you can get creative! If the prior two tips do not seem appealing, think of one thing that you loved from your childhood, but haven’t revisited in years. Now may be the time to do so! 

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

For Mother's Day, I wanted to show my appreciation in a more authentic way than a greeting card from the drug store by my house. So, I found my favorite risotto recipe online (a dish I had only made twice before). This would be a challenge, as the extent of my kitchen innovation in the last year was cracking an egg into ramen noodles. But my mom was worth it, and I was up to the challenge.

Gathering the Ingredients

Instead of driving to Walgreens for a card, I went to the grocery store, leisurely browsing the aisles to procure only the finest of ingredients: arborio rice, Parmigiano Reggiano (the real thing), baby bella mushrooms, parsley, thyme, garlic, shallots, and chicken stock. Yes, the total was expensive, but this was a special occasion.

Ingredient Prep (Mise en Place)

Back home, I started on the real work: ingredient prep, known in France as mise en place (though I'm not an experienced cook, I like using fancy words and channeling my inner Masterchef). The French were onto something—having ingredients ready before cooking definitely helps.

With the Wicked soundtrack playing, I grated the parmesan into a fine, white powder that felt like snow and peeled the thyme leaves off the stems. I chopped my shallots and prepped the rest of my ingredients, having each ready to go at a moment's notice.

Cooking the Perfect Risotto

Finally, I was ready to cook. I heated some oil in the pan and gently wilted the shallots (sautéed until translucent). Then, it was time to mix in the mushrooms: cooking until soft and brown, then throwing in the garlic, thyme, and a little butter.

Once the seasonings were fully incorporated, I threw in the arborio rice, toasting it for one to two minutes (this opens up the rice and allows it to absorb the stock better). I poured in a splash of white wine for acidity, and then started adding the stock, one ladle at a time.

Non-Stop Stirring

And so commenced the stirring. I stirred my risotto to the tune of "Non-Stop" from Hamilton as my mom grew hungry. After 25 minutes of stirring and adding stock, I had the rice right where I wanted it: creamy, al dente, and perfectly flavored.

I took it off the heat, whipped in a tablespoon of butter (the Italians call this mantecare), and added the parmesan. At long last, my creation was finished, taking about ninety minutes after prep, recipe referencing, cooking, and endless stirring.

The Secret Ingredient

I've so verbosely articulated this process to paint the picture of the theme of this dish, and perhaps the most essential ingredient: patience. Risotto is often considered difficult to make, but if a ramen-eating amateur like myself can pull this off, anyone can. Risotto is a labor of love; every step should be embraced and enjoyed, right up to the moment of consumption.

I felt a satisfying pride as I ate my risotto with my mom that night, even though it would never be enough to repay her for everything she's done for me. However, it seemed to be the best way I could show her my appreciation. Watching my mom enjoy each bite that evening, I understood that genuine appreciation isn't measured in dollars. It's measured in the minutes given to create something meaningful, even if it's just a (delicious) bowl of risotto.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

You’ve done the work having submitted countless applications, gone through multiple rounds of interviews, and even played the dreaded waiting game as you wait to hear from your dream internship role in DC! As exciting as it may seem, you will need to hit the ground running to set yourself up for the best summer possible! 

Easily the greatest hurdle in having an awesome time working in DC is finding housing for the summer. Major cities are notorious for having expensive and costly housing, and DC is no different. The capital is extremely small, and everyone feels it when it comes to finding a place to stay. You may even be unsure of how to find a place to stay for just three months of the year. Because of the massive influx of student interns every summer many places offer flexible summer leases, allowing you to pay rent for just three months of the year.  
 
Another great option is to search online forums for colleges and universities in the area. Some universities offer reduced rate housing in the summer and many students who sign year-long leases sublease their apartments from June to August—months that they go home. I found great success in making anonymous postings on forums for each university of the area, and had an excess of options! Because of how small DC is, and the major commuter culture, you can also look to rent in Virginia and Maryland, as these properties are often cheaper. Just be sure to look up your commute on your GPS before you close a deal! 
 

Another major challenge for many students comes as they look to their wardrobes. DC is a hub of working professionals in both government and industry, so finding a business professional wardrobe for ten weeks can become quite expensive. I recommend assessing what you have first. You likely already have a pair of slacks and khakis; many students may have a nice sweater or two. Learn to be creative and mix and match! I leaned into a lot of solid colors, and a lot of neutrals. Think navy blue, black, white, and maybe a pop of one or two other colors. This really makes your closet stretch and saves you tons. For anything you may want to add to your wardrobe, consider hitting a thrift shop or even look at secondhand apps online. There are lots of good deals and great quality to be found. 

Looking beyond housing and wardrobe, one of the most important things you can do during your time in DC is network, network, network! DC is unique in the sheer number of working professionals, present and future leaders, and policy makers alike, all bringing unique experiences and perspectives. Hardly any city compares to this wealth and breadth of opportunity. You must shoot your shot! Keep an ear to the street for professional meet ups and networking events, especially ones aimed at young and early career professionals. Don’t shy away from introducing yourself to colleagues in your workplace and don’t be afraid to set up a quick coffee chat, which is a great way to hear from people who’ve been in your shoes and have seen it through! Many are more than willing to share great advice! And be sure to make ample use of DC during and after your time in LinkedIn—this is how you stay in touch! These connections can be useful in answering future career questions or even serving as a reference or recommendation if you do the job well! 

A summer interning in DC is an incredible opportunity for professional exposure and experience and the opportunity to see what life is like in such a fast-paced and unique city. By looking at (and securing) housing early, curating your professional, yet affordable wardrobe, and making a splash at networking events, you can set yourself up for a successful and memorable three months!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

In high school, everyone talks about how challenging college academics can be, but no one really prepares us for the transition into adulthood that comes with it. I grew up in Venezuela until I was 15, when my family decided to move to the U.S. It was a drastic change, new country, new life, new education system and I had to adapt quickly to keep up. I researched everything about college life, academics, and tips for success, but nothing could fully prepare me for the reality. Because life isn’t just about academics; it also includes family, friends, work, and personal growth. At this age, we’re transitioning from young adults to fully independent adults, and learning to balance everything is key. 

I got my first job as a freshman in college. Even though I was a multitasker in high school—playing volleyball and cross-country college was an entirely new level. My first semester went great; I finished with a 4.0 GPA and made the Dean’s List. Then, spring semester hit, and it wasn’t as easy. I failed my first class ever. I was shocked. I had never failed a class before. But instead of letting it get to me; I took it as a lesson. I reflected on what worked for me in the Fall semester and what I did differently in the Spring semester that led to my struggles. By the Summer semester, I had figured out a balance that allowed me to succeed academically while keeping up with work and personal life. Now, as I near graduation, I want to share the lessons I learned along the way and things I wish I had known when I first started: 

1. Make a Schedule That Works for You 


Everyone is different, and what works for your friends may not work for you. At first, I tried to go to class in the morning and work immediately afterward. But by the time I got home at night, I was too exhausted to study or even eat properly, for the next day to do the same and my academics suffered. I realized that I needed to change my approach. I rearranged my schedule so that I focused on school from Monday to Wednesday and worked from Wednesday afternoon to Friday. This way, I still had weekends off and could dedicate my first three days of the week solely to schoolwork. Find what works best for you and adjust accordingly. 

2. Make a Priority List 


What matters most to you? Family? School? Work? Once you identify your priorities, it becomes easier to create a schedule that allows you to enjoy those things. If spending time with family is important, then structure your week so that you can dedicate a day to them. Knowing your priorities helps you avoid burning out and ensures that you’re investing your time wisely. 

3. It’s Okay to Say No 


This was a hard lesson for me. My family was struggling financially, so I always took extra shifts at work. Before I knew it, I was covering for everyone, but my grades were slipping, and I was neglecting my health. I was just surviving, not living. Eventually, I realized I needed boundaries. It’s okay to say no to extra work, to a hangout, or to anything that drains you beyond your ability. 

Protect yourself. 


4. Speak Up for Yourself 


There are doors that won’t open unless you push them yourself. Stay on top of your academic progress—regularly check in with your professors, meet with your counselor, and advocate for yourself. If you need help, ask for it. No one will fight for your success more than you. The dream is yours. 

5. Use Tools That Will Help You Succeed 


We live in time where technology is everywhere, take advantage. Many students have already gone through your major or university, and there are online resources that can save you time. For me, Pearson+ was a game changer, it allowed me to upload my syllabus, and it created a personalized study plan for me. Tools like YouTube tutorials, study apps, and tutoring can also be incredibly helpful. Use whatever resources you need to succeed. 
 

I hope these tips help you navigate the balancing act of college and work. It’s not easy, but with the right approach, you can thrive in both areas. Remember, you’re not just getting a degree, you’re also learning how to manage life as an adult. Make the most of it and enjoy the process.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!