Students blog

Throughout my high school experience, I thought I knew exactly what I wanted for my future. Eventually, I chose to attend a university based on these preferences. I started as a first-year student at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) as a Cybersecurity Engineering major (which was not a common major). As time went on, I started falling behind in my classes because everyone else had been exposed to the major-related content in high school, but I hadn’t. In other words, they came into college having the foundational knowledge that I wasn’t exposed to. At the same time, I was taking psychology courses and eventually picked up a minor. I fell in love with this program at UAH, so I decided to switch to majoring in psychology. I was hesitant at first but have never regretted my decision. If you are having trouble deciding whether to change majors, here are some of the things I learned from my experience that might help!

Stress and anxiety are common in college students because they have so much to balance. From work to school to friends and family, there is so much going on. In the end, however, no one knows what you are feeling or going through better than yourself. When changing majors there is one more thing added to one’s plate. What really helped me is weighing the pros and cons of what would happen if I changed my major. In the end, the pros outweighed the cons, which was the biggest reason I decided to switch majors. However, I recognize this might not be the case for everyone. My suggestion is that before you officially switch majors, take a minute to weigh the pros and cons of the situation.

My first year at UAH, I took an intro level psychology class to fulfill one of my general course requirements. I did well in the class and liked the topics and material. This course was my first step to changing my major, even though I did not realize it at the time. From this experience, I can confidently say that if you are thinking about changing your major, taking a class in the major is a terrific way to see if it is really something you are interested in. One probably should not change their major without knowing much about what the major is like. In addition to learning more about what the major is about, this also gives you a connection to a professor within the major.

A big question when it comes to choosing a major is what you can do in the future with it. Here is my advice: start by doing some research online. Look for what other people in the major have gone on to do for a career to see if there is anything you might be interested in. If you still have more questions or concerns, set up an appointment with a professor in that field at your school. They will most likely be able to give you more information and possibly good advice! From my experience, most professors are happy to discuss these kinds of things! Finally, not only will these actions help alleviate stress and anxiety about changing majors, but it will also give you more information and a good connection if you do decide to change majors.

Picking a major is a large part of the college experience, and there is a lot of pressure to “pick the right one.” If you find yourself in a situation where you are thinking about changing majors, I hope these tips from my experience help!

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! 

What do you want to be when you grow up is a common question that children are asked in their youth. I feel very lucky that I always knew my answer. I want to be a teacher. Maybe it was because of the “superhero” teachers I met during my grade school years or maybe it was my love for learning, but I’ve always known exactly where I belonged: in the classroom.

This led to me to my dream school Rutgers University for their undergraduate Mathematics program and Graduate School of Education where I could earn my teaching certificate. As part of my undergraduate journey, I took a class called Undergraduate Supervised Tutoring in Mathematics for aspiring high school math teachers. Through this class, I had the opportunity to work with real high school math students one day a week for a whole semester. I was able to dip my toe into what my future could look like and became a teacher... come along my journey with me!

The First Day

As a student teacher, you step onto a path paved with lessons and experiences both in and out of the classroom, shaping the learning experience for your students while foraging your own personal identity. I was both excited and nervous stepping into J.P. Stevens High School in Edison, New Jersey on my first day of student teaching. I knew my role was to help the teacher in any way they needed and aid student learning in three different math classes – Geometry, Algebra I and Algebra II – but I wondered what the students and staff would be like and wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. I walked through the familiar high school-esque concrete walls, metal lockers, and colorful bulletin boards. My shoes squeaked on the floor tiles as I finally made my way to room 217, period 1 Geometry where I was met with 17 pairs of curious eyes. Even though I was a stranger in their classroom, the teacher gave me a welcoming smile and introduced me to the students who I could tell were intrigued, albeit confused, at the new face in their room.

Building Relationships

I went into student teaching knowing it would take some time for the students to become comfortable with me. I was a new personality coming into their classroom halfway through the school year, altering their classroom dynamic and everyday habits. Some of the students were intrigued, asking me where I went to college, what I was studying, and how long I would be in their classroom, while others were more hesitant to approach me. However, one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching in general for me is having the opportunity to form meaningful connections with students and establish a safe relationship, so I spent much of my first day introducing myself to every student and getting to know them. For the next couple of weeks, I continued this practice and engaged with every student during the period, asking how they were doing or if they needed help on a problem. Eventually, walls crumbled and shells opened up to the point where the students came up to me as they entered the room before class started to tell me about their weekend or the test they just took. Externally, I was as cool as a cucumber, but inside I was jumping with joy at the progress I had made!

Embracing Growth

There were definitely moments of doubt and uncertainty during my student teaching when I questioned my abilities as an educator. Especially in the beginning, I often second guessed myself and overthought every single action I made. Did I explain that clearly enough? Maybe I should have said ___ instead? That was definitely confusing for that student, I’m an idiot! And sometimes, I didn’t even have an answer to a student’s question which just left me thinking wasn’t I supposed to be the one with all the answers?

This is where my mentor teachers really helped me. They shared stories from their days of student teaching and how they felt the exact same way at first. Phew! At least I wasn’t alone. Even though I was in a “teacher” role, it was easy for me to forget that I was still a student at the same time, and this was meant to be a learning experience. I tried to adopt a growth mindset and learn as much from my students as I hoped they were learning from me. As the weeks passed, I witnessed a profound transformation within myself. Each interaction contributed to my growth as an educator, a student, and a person. I searched for feedback from the students and mentor teachers and applied it to future lessons, recognizing this as a catalyst for improvement. Through reflective practice and continuous self-assessment, I learned to spend more energy on trying to improve rather than putting myself down for mistakes or missteps. By the end of my student teaching experience, I felt I had honed my teaching skills and gained infinitely more confidence in my abilities.

So what is one piece of advice that I would I give to future student teachers? The best piece of advice that comes to mind is to be fearless. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, don’t be afraid to accept criticism and use it to better yourself, don’t be afraid to get to know the students, and don’t be afraid to be yourself!

Looking Towards the Future

The end of my first student teaching journey was bittersweet. I was sad to bid farewell to my students, but I was proud of what I had accomplished and my personal growth. Amidst challenges or lack of confidence, there were so many moments of triumph – seeing the spark in a student’s eyes as they grasped a difficult concept or watching a student have an “ah-ha” moment while working on a problem. These small victories served as reminders of the profound impact that teachers have on the lives of their students, reaffirming my passion for education.

I also knew that my student teaching journey was just getting started! Next year, I will begin my clinical phases and expand to full time student teaching! I’m so excited to embark on the next chapter of my teaching journey and learn more about what it means to be not just a good teacher, but a great one, before I have my own classroom!

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! 

The construction industry is something that generations of my family have been involved in. From both sets of grandparents to my own parents, construction work is in my blood. A degree in Architecture is something many people know about and is considered a popular major here in Texas, but a degree in construction management is a lot less popular and acclaimed.

The first thing that needs to be known about the construction management industry is that there are currently less people entering the field than retiring from it. This is extremely important to point out because most construction companies are now requiring a Construction Management degree to fulfill this position. Because this is just now becoming a more popular degree, not many established workers in the industry will be able to take on this position. Here at Texas A&M, graduates with a construction science degree can plan on receiving on average 8 job offers the moment you walk across the graduating stage. This is because the demand for this position is so incredibly high in volume.

Although this degree can sound like an easy time, you are expected to put in the work. Taking classes like estimating, where you are expected to understand the entire construction processes of creating a building to price every screw, can be extremely difficult. You are required to fully grasp and comprehend blueprint drawing’s involving electrical, landscaping, architecture, and even plumbing. This degree requires you to be well rounded and understand the construction industry more than you would expect.

If you are thinking of majoring in structural engineering, business, or architecture, right now is a great time to look at construction management. You get an understanding of all these different sectors of study, as well as become specially trained with knowledge construction companies are desperate to find. 

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! 

Many students, myself included, have struggled to figure which major to choose in college. Having the opportunity to add concentrations, minors, and certificates to your degree allows you to pick a major while adding other interests. Pursuing multiple majors, minors, or certificates is a strategic approach that not only enhances one's personal development but also their professional marketability. Having a multifaceted education offers a comprehensive and complex skill set as well as adaptability, which are highly sought after attributes.

Customize Your Degree

Multiple academic qualifications facilitate the development of a diversified skill set. In today’s job market, employers are looking for individuals who have a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge, not just an expert in a singular field. For example, a student majoring in Marketing might choose to concentrate in Marketing Research and Analytics and add a minor in Sales. That combination of studies allows the individual to have a unique blend of skills, making them versatile and capable of contributing various things to a project or company.

Combines Disciplines

Pursuing multiple disciplines encourages a holistic understanding of complex issues. This is particularly beneficial in careers that integrate different perspectives, leading to innovative solutions and breakthroughs. For example, combining Environmental Science with Political Science and a certificate in Sustainability equips graduates with scientific knowledge, policy understanding, and sustainable knowledge needed to take on environmental challenges. This not only enhances problem-solving skills but also prepares individuals to address issues with a well-rounded perspective.

Proves Work Ethic

The pursuit of multiple majors, minors, and certificates is a testament to an individual’s commitment, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity. The individual’s willingness to go beyond the bare minimum expresses an eagerness to engage further in the learning process. These are specific qualities that employers are looking for because they suggest a motivated and dedicated approach to one's professional development. The connections between multiple departments also offers significant advantages. They offer diverse perspectives, mentorship opportunities, and access to a broader array of career paths and networking opportunities.

The enrichment of one’s academic and professional development can be enhanced with the completion of multiple majors, minors, or certificates. It equips students with a broad skill set and adaptability needed to excel in today’s workforce. This lays a foundation for lifelong learning and career development.

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! 

Dogs are man’s best friend, and I have found that the most perfect way to destress in college is to spend some time at my local animal shelter. However, I have learned that no two dogs are alike, just like college majors. Based on my extensive time spent with both dogs and other college students, here are some similarities I have found between the two, and what dog breed I believe you are based on your major.

Business: Golden Retriever

Whether your business major falls under accounting and finance or marketing and management, a golden retriever is the definition of a business type of dog. Sometimes called the “easy major”, golden retrievers can be blown off as goofy dogs, but they are serious workers and often seen as K9s and service dogs, in the same way that business students are seen all over the workforce.

Journalism: Beagle

Known as hunting dogs (always looking for a good story), these loyal and happy-go-lucky dogs are the perfect comparison for journalism majors. Like these dogs, journalism majors are outgoing but also hard workers.

Speech Pathology: Border Collie

Easily trainable, attention to detail, fun but focused, all things that make border collies and speech path majors similar. They are hard workers and know how to have fun, but also are down for a night in after the workday is done, which is a trait all my favorite speech path majors exhibit.

Design: Cocker Spaniel

Arguably the most beautiful dog, the perfect example of a design major is a cocker spaniel. These dogs are sociable and adaptable, just like design majors, and are always looking their best, while impressing everyone around them.

Pre-Med: German Shepherds

In my opinion, these are the smartest dogs. Similar to golden retrievers, they are seen in all the “dog workforces” and are super intelligent and loyal to their people. Although pre-med students can be considered less sociable, similar to German shepherds, I believe it is just because they are harder workers than most of us, and sometimes that can be intimidating.

If you enjoyed these comparisons, I encourage you to check out your local animal shelter, and spend some time with different breeds, and make some of your own, as well as add to my list!

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 2008, a small, wide-eyed child would enter her first Kindergarten classroom. She would fall in love with the sights, the smells, the people, and the atmosphere. Her teachers would inspire her to be just like them when she grew up. Over the years, she would learn about the joys of reading, writing, and mathematics and anxiously wait for each school year to start again. Each teacher would plant a seed in this child’s pre-elementary school mind that would grow for the rest of her school career.

That child was me.

Evolving Why

Deciding that I wanted to be a teacher was easy. I watched other kids bounce back and forth between a doctor or an astronaut or a lawyer, but my career choice has remained unchanged. However, the reason for my choice has evolved. At first, I thought teachers were just people who knew more than everyone else and had all the answers. As an adolescent, I wanted to be “smart” and share my knowledge with others. As I entered adulthood, I began to understand that, while teachers are incredibly intelligent, they are just regular people who want to make a difference. Not to mention, they are intelligent in a way that is far more valuable than what can be taught in textbooks. Teachers must have immense emotional, social, and situational intellect in order to work effectively with students. Now that I’m in college, I strive to be as well-rounded of a teacher as those I've been lucky enough to learn from when I was in grade school.

Evolving Who

Overall, I knew, one day, I would end up at the front of a classroom. Determining what age-group and subject I wanted to teach was not defined so early. As I moved through each grade, I always ended the year saying I wanted to teach the grade I had just finished instead of the previous grade. That came to a screeching halt when I reached high school. I enjoyed the challenge of high school subjects and liked the material that I was learning more than I ever had before. I then knew that I wanted to teach high school... but I still hadn’t picked a subject.

Evolving What

I loved reading while in elementary school. You could always find me somewhere flicking the pages of a book like I just couldn’t wait to get to the next chapter. Throughout middle school, I thought I had my mind made up that I would major in English in college. Easy. Done. But not quite, because when I got to high school, I fell in love with my math courses. It probably helped that I had some incredible teachers for Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus, but there was something addicting about finding that one right answer to a problem. I still enjoy reading and writing and loved my English courses too, but I knew that I didn’t have the same passion for it as mathematics.

So, career? Teaching. Age group? High school. Subject? Math. I felt like I had all my questions answered and I was excited for the future.

There are times where I doubt my abilities or wonder if I am good enough to be an educator, especially in a subject as difficult as math, but then I remember the unwavering confidence that my teachers had in this one child. If they believe I can do it, then so should I.

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 most college students the transition from high school studies to college studies can be very difficult and hard to adjust to. There are many ways to learn how to study and succeed. During my freshman year at the University of Alabama, I felt very prepared to do well in school from my high school experience. As a current sophomore at the university, I have had to learn new ways to study since the difficulty of my classes has increased immensely. 

I am a nursing major and am delving further into my program now more than ever before. When I took a challenging anatomy course last semester, I sought help on how to navigate this class, because there was so much to learn in such a short amount of time. I found it necessary to devote the most time to this class while still putting in the most effort I could for my other classes. Here are the actions I found to be most helpful in succeeding.

Show up for every class session

The best tip and piece of advice I can give to any college student is to attend class no matter what, regardless of how easy the class may seem. I have learned that I am more successful in the future because of it, and it makes studying outside of class much easier. My notes are more organized because I write them in or before class. 

Take notes before, during, and after class

A good way to study for a hard class is to take notes before with the required reading and then solidify the information during class. This way you can incorporate extra details the professor might add during class. Even though this is very important, what a student does outside of class makes or breaks how a student does in a class. Being able to have a good work ethic and studying outside of class helps a student remember the information. That way when it is exam day, you are prepared to take the exam and pass it. 

Solidify your study skills

A good study habit to do well on a test is to find a good study environment. Go in a quiet room, without any distractions, and study the material. The way to solidify the information is to also take breaks when necessary. It is always best to refer to the detailed notes and the PowerPoints. Looking back at these are necessary to understand the information you have learned, and to best answer the questions on the test. It is also essential to never cram study in college. That will not be beneficial for the future, as it does not allow for you to fully understand the material.

In most academic situations in college, the work and effort you put into each class will pay off in the future. If you study for your classes, it'll show, even if not right away. You will never regret the amount of effort you put into a class in order to succeed.

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! 

Life as a project-based student has its highs and lows. Typically, college students can be found studying in coffee shops, working in the library with friends, or even curling up on the couch working on homework. But for a project-based student, that might not be an option. As a landscape architecture student, most of my time is spent in the studio working on computer/hand graphic projects. This looks like spending upwards of 20 hours a week in the same classroom, with the same people, with the same professors, working on design projects.

Strong Community

This might sound like a hefty experience, but there are many pros that come along with working mainly on projects: I don't have tests often, I get to know the people in my classes, and I get to delegate my time how I want to. One project could last months, but in that time frame I get to become close with my classmates and professors, and we get to bond over working on the same project for long periods of time. Most other majors don't have the opportunity to fully get to know your classmates, but the community work environment of a design major makes it vital to succeeding in class.

Marathon Studio Time

The average work week for me looks like having studio time on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:30 to 5:20. On top of that I might need to be spending some of my time in the studio getting ahead or catching up. Having that amount of class time might seem wild but having that separated class time just to work is vital and has taught me a lot about how to manage my time well. During a busy project, I might be spending 30-plus hours a week in the same room with the same people.

Real-World Career Preparation

There are some downsides to spending so much time in the studio. The timeline of projects can be daunting, spending time with the same people for large amounts of time can be hard, and getting along with professors can become challenging. But all these things allow for benefits in the work environment. Down the line whenever we get a real job, there are going to be tough work relations and tough deadlines. The landscape architecture program truly prepares you for what life could be like outside of school.

Most majors have it differently with their exams, but I enjoy creating these projects. I’ve enjoyed the relationships I’ve been able to build with peers and professors since we have to work on the same projects over a long time. This will transfer over into the real world of architecture, which I will hopefully be in soon enough!

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! 

Pursuing computer science at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a tapestry woven with challenges, triumph, and countless insights, many that come with being a first-generation Black woman in a field where diversity is often a rarity. Here are just a few that I have experienced in my time at an HBCU.

Choosing the Path

Choosing to major in computer science was an intentional decision, driven by a profound passion for technology and a desire to contribute to a field where more diversity is necessary, but lacking.

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

Life as a first-generation student presents itself as a long journey, characterized by a myriad of challenges and triumphs. The intricacies of deciphering complex programming problems to grappling with the stereotypes deeply rooted in the field of technology, has been challenging but also rewarding. The highs and lows of my academic journey serve as a vivid canvas, illustrating the resilience needed to navigate uncharted territories.

Mentorship

Mentorship is a crucial component of being successful in any field. Mentors, with their sage advice and unwavering support, have played an instrumental role in shaping not only the trajectory of my studies but also my understanding of the field. Their influence extends beyond academia, permeating into the essence of personal development.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the heart of my experience lies diversity within STEM at my HBCU. Being part of a community that embraces diversity and fosters inclusion has made a profound impact on both who I am as a student and who I am as a person. The unique environment of my university has not only enriched my education journey but has also become a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and a broader perspective on the possibilities within the realm of computer science.

Resilience

In the face of challenges, resilience emerges as a constant companion. As I continue my journey, bouncing back, learning from failures, and keeping an unwavering determination all have propelled me forward. Resilience is not just a trait; it is an enduring narrative woven intricately into the fabric of my journey.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Other than my passion for technology and diversity, I also have a commitment to motivate the next generation. I come from a small town in south Louisiana, where the younger generation are not aware of all of the possibilities that can be offered to them. As a first-generation student, a Black woman, and a torchbearer for diversity in STEM, the responsibility to inspire others becomes a central theme. I strive to provide a blueprint for success in the face of adversity.

The collective journey we navigate together is a commitment to shaping a future where diversity is an undeniable part of technological innovation. As we traverse the dynamic landscape of STEM, the hope is for shared narratives to inspire and empower. As the journey continues, we strive for a reality where the pioneers of today pave the way for those of tomorrow.

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!