Students blog

College is a great way to continue your education, make new friends, and build relationships and connections that will last you a lifetime. It is truly a place filled with unlimited opportunities. With that being said, college can also be a very stressful place at times. Juggling all your classes and homework may leave you feeling like you're falling behind. And joining extracurriculars definitely enhances the college experience, but if you struggle with time management, you can quickly get overwhelmed with the amount of time and work required on top of your academic demands. Here are a few tips that helped me learn how to manage and ease the stress of college.

Stay Connected

One thing that has really helped me is staying connected with my campus. I came to college thinking that everybody just has it together. I never used to ask for help and just thought I could manage it all on my own. Although you may think that there are no helpful resources out there, a lot of colleges provide free tutoring for almost every subject. Before learning about the tutoring, I would often stress myself out thinking that I would never be able to get the help I needed and would have to figure it out all by myself. However, these tools and resources are free and accessible; all you need to do is ask!

Plot and Scheme

Another tip I have for time management is to start by planning out your days, writing down what you have to do and making a to-do list. If you just keep all of the tasks in your head without properly planning it, it will most likely lead to you forgetting about certain obligations such as not making enough time for homework or not making enough time for yourself. I would recommend starting by getting into the healthy habit of writing and visualizing what your priorities are for the day.

Prioritize Yourself

Last, but not least, you should always prioritize yourself and your well-being. Although college can be stressful, you should never overwork yourself. It’s good to be self-motivated and determined, but you should also give yourself the rest and breaks you need. You’ll be hurting yourself more if you don’t prioritize your mental health. Always take the time to breathe, meditate, clear your mind, or do something that helps you relieve your stress. It can be something as simple as drawing, going on a walk, or cooking! Personally, I found that coloring really helps me clear my mind. Overworking yourself can ultimately result in burning yourself out, which is exactly what you don’t want to do at the end of the day.

Success starts with you, so you should prioritize your well-being! Find a nice planner either physical or digital and plan. Make note of the things you need to do. Keep up to date with student emails and apps. Keep your eyes open to flyers and resources, and just ask around. There wouldn’t be resources if you are the only one struggling. Navigating college with these tips has definitely helped and improved my experience, and I hope that these tips can also help you!

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! 

Transitioning to college marks a significant milestone, but it also brings its fair share of challenges, particularly in managing stress. From academic pressures to social expectations and newfound responsibilities, the college experience can be overwhelming. I attend an institution which operates on the quarter system, making time become an even more precious commodity. The fast pace of the quarter system can feel overwhelming, leaving students feeling like they're constantly playing catch-up.

However, it doesn't have to be a constant battle against stress. Whether it's time management, self-care practices, or seeking support, this guide aims to empower students to find balance amidst the demands of college life; finding balance is not only possible but essential for thriving in college.

Understanding the Quarter System

At UC Davis, the quarter system condenses the academic year into three ten-week terms, making each quarter feel like a sprint rather than a marathon. While this structure offers flexibility and the chance to explore a variety of subjects, it also means that students need to adapt quickly to new courses, professors, and expectations every few months. The rapid pace can lead to stress and burnout if not managed effectively.

Strategies for Navigating Stress

1. Effective Time Management:

• Utilize tools like planners or digital calendars to organize your schedule.
• Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance to ensure you're focusing your energy where it matters most.

2. Self-Care Practices:

• Make time for activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, whether it's exercise, meditation, or simply taking a walk outside.
• Get enough sleep each night to support cognitive function and overall well-being.
• Don't forget to nourish your body with healthy meals and stay hydrated throughout the day.

3. Seeking Support:

• Don't hesitate to reach out to professors or academic advisors if you're struggling with coursework. They're there to help you succeed.
• Lean on friends, family, or support groups for emotional support during challenging times.
• Take advantage of campus resources like counseling services or tutoring centers if you need additional assistance.

Cultivating Resilience and Well-Being

Navigating stress in college isn't just about managing the demands of academic life; it's also about fostering resilience and well-being. By implementing effective strategies for managing stress and prioritizing self-care, students can cultivate the resilience needed to navigate the ups and downs of college life successfully.

The quarter system at UC Davis, like any fast-paced academic environment, can be demanding and stressful. However, by implementing strategies for effective time management, prioritizing self-care practices, and seeking support when needed, students can find balance amidst the chaos. Remember, college is not just about academic success but also about personal growth and well-being. By prioritizing both, students can thrive in college and beyond, equipped with the resilience needed to overcome any challenge that comes their way. 

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! 

It's that time of year again! The sun is shining, and there’s still plenty of time to enjoy your well-earned free time and make the most of your summer break. From visiting new places to learning new skills, you'll find all the best ways to make the most of your summer break listed here! Start making your bucket list now! 
 

1. Build Your Resume 


Though nobody wants to spend their entire break working, summer is a great time to look at different career opportunities and start adding experiences to your resume! Great opportunities to consider can range from volunteer work to internships to seasonal jobs. Committing to any of these options will show future potential employers that you are hard-working and that you have valuable experience in the workforce (and will give you some extra spending cash!). Not sure where to start? Reach out to your college’s career counselor or head onto Pearson+ to check out what actively hiring career opportunities they recommend to you! 
 

2. Learn a New Skill 


What’s that one thing you’ve always wanted to do but just never found the time to get around  to? Well, now’s your time to get started! Whether you’ve always wanted to start playing an instrument, learn how to sew, cook up new recipes, or start a homemade garden, nothing’s stopping you now that you’re on break! Dip your toes into different hobbies and learn more about what interests you. You can also check out what clubs and organizations your school offers and connect with new people who share your passions! 
 

3. Get Outside 


Especially if you live someplace where the winters are long and cold (like I do!), now’s the time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather! Some of my favorite outdoor activities include hiking national parks, swimming at the pool, biking around town, having picnics in the park, or finding some local live music to listen to. Even something as simple as sitting on your porch while you read or scroll your phone can be a breath of fresh air! Make sure not to waste the days before you’ll be sitting inside of classrooms all day again! 
 


4. Explore a New Place 


Exploring someplace new can range from traveling to a different city to making it a goal to find a new coffee shop you like right in your town. One of my favorite summers was spent in London, walking all around the city and learning how to navigate the Tube. But you don’t have to save up and travel miles to have a fun summer! Whether you’re a transplant studying in a foreign city or staying close to home, there’s always tons to explore right under your nose! Try a new restaurant, check out a local concert, try to find an Instagram-able mural – get acquainted with your town and maybe find your new favorite study location! 
 

5. Recharge Before Next Semester 

Lastly, and most importantly, make sure that you take plenty of time to regroup over the break so that you can dive back into your next semester recharged and ready to learn. Binge a new favorite show, pamper yourself with a new haircut, and catch up on all the sleep you’ve skipped out on the past semester!  
 
However, you choose to spend your summer break, make sure you spend plenty of time doing the things you enjoy! You’ve earned a break after a long semester of hard work– so enjoy your break! 

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! 

College is a time for growth, learning, and exploration, but it doesn't have to break the bank. With careful planning and smart choices, you can experience unforgettable vacations without draining your savings account. In this ultimate guide, I’ll provide tips, tricks, and strategies to plan budget-friendly vacations that won't leave you stressing over finances.

Set A Realistic Budget

Before planning your vacation, determine how much you can afford to spend. Consider your income, savings, and any additional funding sources such as scholarships or part-time jobs. Be realistic about what you can afford to avoid overspending.

Choose Affordable Destinations

Opt for destinations that are known for being budget-friendly and safe for students. Look for places where the cost of living is lower, such as Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or certain parts of South America. Research destinations that offer affordable accommodations, food, and activities.

Book Flights And Accommodations in Advance

Plan and book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals. Airlines and hotels often offer lower prices for early bookings, so don't wait until the last minute to make your reservations. Things such as TSA precheck and Discover card offer great deals for students when purchasing TSA precheck and flights. 

Utilize Student Discounts

Take advantage of student discounts whenever possible. Many attractions, museums, and transportation services offer discounted rates for students with a valid ID. Look for student travel cards or memberships that offer additional discounts on flights, accommodations, and activities. 

Use Public Transportation

Skip the Ubers and rental cars and opt for public transportation instead. Public buses, trains, trolleys, and subways are often much cheaper than other modes of transportation and can help you save money while exploring your destination.

Plan Free or Low-Cost Activities

Research free or low-cost activities and attractions at your destination. Explore parks, and museums with free admission days, walking tours, or local markets. Embrace the opportunity to experience the culture and sights without spending a fortune.

Be Flexible and Open-Minded

Stay flexible and open-minded when planning your budget-friendly vacation. Be willing to adjust your itinerary, try new things, and embrace unexpected opportunities. By staying flexible, you can make the most of your trip without blowing your budget.

With careful planning, research, and a bit of creativity, planning budget-friendly vacations in college is entirely achievable. By setting a realistic budget, choosing affordable destinations, utilizing student discounts, and making smart choices about accommodations, transportation, and activities, you can enjoy incredible travel experiences without breaking the bank. So go ahead, start planning your next adventure, and make memories that will last a lifetime—all while staying within your budget.

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! 

Reading for recreation has become immensely popular for college students in recent years, and I can hardly say that I’m surprised. Being a new adult and experiencing life on your own for the first time can be scary. It definitely helps to escape to a different world where the problems are solvable, like when we were kids reading Hunger Games or Harry Potter. However, I know that it can be hard to find books to get into that allure and entertain you, especially when you may be feeling burned out from your academic reading. Here are 5 books to start you back into the magical world of reading.

5. The Grace Year by Kim Ligget

If you absolutely loved books like The Hunger Games and Divergent as a kid, then this is the book for you. It follows Tierney James as she enters her ‘grace year.’ In her world, this is the year that sixteen-year-old girls are sent out on an island to use up all their magic, so they don’t disrupt society. Think of it like a girl’s version of Lord of the Flies. This book is action-packed with an inspiring ending and maybe even a dash of romance.

4. Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Video game lovers, this one is for you. This story is a love letter to video games and the creative process of making them. It follows Sam and Sadie, two best friends in the 80s who reconnect as college students and develop a popular video game just as gaming is becoming popular. The story follows them as they learn how to be adults and live in the real world.

3. Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper

This is a sweet queer fantasy romance that involves a competition to become a town’s head witch. Wizards of Waverly Place anyone? This book also talks about how awkward it can be coming back home after you’ve grown up and changed. This is definitely something that commonly happens in college and maybe the main character Emmy can help you through that in your own life, too.

2. I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

If you’ve seen the movie that this is based on, you should give the book a try! They actually have completely different endings. This book is about Robert Neville, the last man alive in the zombie apocalypse. It has science and action and adventure as he tries to survive.

1. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

If you enjoy Knives Out and The Glass Onion, this book has very similar vibes. Avery receives a letter with news that one of the world’s richest men has left her his entire inheritance and she has no idea why. To figure it out, she has to go to his house and deal with his slighted family and the seemingly infinite number of puzzles that he left for her. This book is fast paced, adventurous, and has a little bit of romance on the side.

Hopefully these books can get you started into the mystical world of literature while in college. Reading is a great form of self-care, and these books are a great place to start. No matter what life throws at you, books are an excellent escape and can help us regain our composure before going back out into the world.

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! 

I think golf as a sport can be described in many words, but for the people who have played it one word comes to mind, “frustrating.” Seldomly is a golf shot perfect. You may only come out of a four-hour round of golf with one shot you deem perfect. And that’s what’s so frustrating about it.

Golf is a game of ups and downs, and consistency is a major part of scoring well. For anyone unfamiliar with golf, the point of the game is to try to get a tiny white ball in a hole hundreds of yards away. Players have to achieve this goal in the designated amount of hits. In golf terms, this is known as “par” which is equivalent to three, four, or five hits per hole depending on the distance. You have to stay perfectly consistent if you want to put up a good score. Even the best players in the world can't achieve this level of perfection. What makes great players is their ability to mitigate mistakes. They mess up just like average golfers but it's how they respond to bad shots that makes them truly amazing.

The hard part about golf is the repetition of disappointment as you aim to get as close to the perfect score as possible but never succeed. That's why I believe people keep coming back to this game to always try to improve. This is the same way I see life. We as humans will never be perfect and self-improvement is hard work, but there is joy in making yourself better every day.

Golf at its purest is not only a physical game but also a mental game. In golf, one bad shot can easily lead you to a downward spiral and throw you off your game. You have to focus on one shot at a time. As a college student I struggle with falling short in many aspects of my life. Many assignments or tests I come away from saying to myself “I could do better.” College is difficult and if you internalize your failures, you will never be able to make it. You have to learn from your mistakes and improve in order to successfully get through college.

Like golf, life will have a lot of disappointing moments but it's how you respond to those bad shots that reveal who you are. I could wallow in my failures, or I could pick myself and try harder for the next test or assignment. Do you give up or keep taking swings? And that’s why I think golf is such a good metaphor for life.

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! 

Health and wellness are imperative for every human being, but as a college student, we are in a season of our life that requires immense focus which can be physically and mentally taxing. At the start of the year, I set an intention to prioritize balance, and part of honoring this intention was ensuring that my body was balanced. To do this, I made time for activities such as yoga, working out, eating healthy, and juicing and boy, has it changed my energy levels and overall outlook. Here’s how my health and wellness journey has impacted my day-to-day life. Implementing some of these habits could elevate your reality, too.

Developing A Consistent Rising Routine

During the first 20 minutes after you wake up in the rising, your brain is moving from lower frequency alpha brain waves into higher frequency beta brain waves. It is important to be intentional with what you choose to do within these 20 minutes because it can greatly affect your mood and energy for the remainder of the day. I start my days by doing a hygiene routine that consists of washing my face, brushing my teeth, and doing my hair. After this I do a 10-to-15-minute meditation to gain some internal clarity, give gratitude, and set intentions for the day. This step is really important to me because it keeps me aligned and grounded for a long day of school and work.

Implementing Fitness in Different Styles

Movement is medicine. Prioritizing movement can positively affect the way your brain processes information. Exercising has been shown to “promote all kinds of changes in the brain including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being.” (Helpguide.org) One of my favorite ways to add exercise into my schedule is by doing yoga. Yoga allows me to develop a deeper connection between my mind and body by doing breathe-to-movement flows. This drastically increases my focus throughout the day and helps my body feel good.

Healthy Eating Habits

It can be very difficult to try and eat healthy in college depending on dining options and proximity to grocery stores with fresh foods. My university is in a rural area, and I live in an off-campus apartment meaning I don’t have a meal plan so it’s always my job to ensure that I have food for the week. I really love shopping at stores like Trader Joe’s or Aldi because they have healthy food options at good prices. I meal prep on weekends so that I do not have to take time to cook in the middle of the week when my schedule is packed. I also try and make fresh juices such as pineapple, orange, and ginger juice because it helps keep my body clean and boost energy levels. I believe that you are what you eat, and putting good in allows you to get good out making it very important to be intentional about what you put in your body.

No matter what you’re facing right now in college, there is always room for improvement. Implementing just one of these habits consistently will help you so much in the long run. There are so many ways to get these things right, just go and try it! Don’t hold back or worry about getting it all correct. As I have shared, practicing these healthy habits improves my day-to-day life immensely which is what brought me to share it with you.

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 a college student I am constantly thinking about “what’s next”. How many times have you thought about a world beyond college? Did these thoughts make you anxious or stressed? There are many factors that affect the transition for college students into a post-college world. These factors can determine whether you have a positive transition out of college or a negative one. A college graduate can experience a career gap when transitioning due to a variety of reasons. There are two main reasons, which include not attaining an internship and a failure to network and build connections.

Internships

Finding a productive post-college experience is substantially influenced by the internship you attain. To begin with, completing an internship is a way to decide whether the career you are pursuing is the right one for you. Securing the correct internship can set you up with a possible job offer after college if it goes well. Moreover, internships provide a significant advantage for those who can secure them because they can be used as recent experience for the career or specific job you are pursuing. A good internship program looks great on your resume as well.

Networking and Connections

The connections that you build throughout your college journey have significant importance on your transition out of college, too. Networking while still in college can be positive post-college because it can make your job search process go more efficiently. For example, in the business world it is a lot about who you know; therefore, business students spend a lot of time connecting with professors and attending job fairs to build their networks. In fact, building your network by creating connections plays a significant role in getting your brand and name out in your career field, and, as a result, makes the transition out of college more effective and efficient.

The environment beyond college is a whole new world with all new challenges, opportunities, and people for college students to explore. Students should begin preparing for this transition as soon as possible because it can sneak up on you. Therefore, students should be given an idea and be prepared for all these new possibilities in this new world. Connections get you so far and help you find roles you never knew about or never dreamed you could reach. We never get anywhere by ourselves, so building connections and fostering relationships goes a long way.

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 a student taking steps towards my future career, I have learned some things you can take to secure that internship you have always been dreaming of. It doesn’t matter whether you are a freshman or a senior, these steps apply to everyone and can be used to help propel yourself to getting closer to that offer.

To start off, it is important for you to understand what type of industry you see yourself working in. This not only narrows down what you may be interested in, but it also allows you to tailor your documents that may be needed when applying.

Once you have figured out where you want to apply, now you must start preparing you respective documents. The first and arguably most important one is a resume. There are many resume templates online that you can utilize and reference. You can even reach out to a friend or colleague to gauge how they applied for a similar position using their resumes. The main points on the resume should be your contact information, list of achievements, and any activities or clubs that you may be a part of that are relevant to this job opportunity. Next, you want to edit and make sure the resume is clear and legible. Most recruiters look at an applicant's resume for a maximum of ten seconds, so it is very important you have an easy-to-read resume. This allows someone to quickly browse through and gain an understanding of the type of person that you are.

After you have created a resume, it is time to create a LinkedIn. This form of social media is very helpful in developing connections and staying in contact with your colleagues. It also can prove to be a place where future opportunities may present themselves to you. Here on LinkedIn, it is important you once again list your achievements and relevant experience to the industry you are seeking to work in. You can also feature a link to your LinkedIn profile on your resume.

Once both your resume and LinkedIn have been finalized, now comes the application part. It is important that you apply to as many jobs as you can that your experience matches up with. Rarely will the first couple of applications land you an interview. For me personally, whenever I have some free time or I’m bored, I’ll generally use that time to apply to a couple job postings. There are many sites one can use to apply to jobs. I tend to use Handshake and LinkedIn. Handshake is great as it's geared towards college students, so a lot of the job postings will be geared towards your level of experience. LinkedIn is also great as most employers utilize LinkedIn to recruit.

What also helps if you’d like to gain more experience is to join clubs at your university that are geared towards the industry you are interested in. If you like learning about cars and want to design cars, maybe try joining a car club on campus. Having activities and interests that are also aligned with what you are trying to pursue upon graduation makes your resume stand out even more.

The process to secure an internship can sometimes be disheartening, however it is important that you persist and continue trying. Even though initially you may not get the results you desire, if you are improving and trying every day, you eventually will get to your goal of securing your dream internship.

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!