Students blog

Jobs and internships that require skilled writing will almost always request a writing sample with your application. Luckily, college is filled with writing, and I’m willing to bet you already have a rough draft ready to refine for your sample. With some fine-tuning, essays, memos, and creative pieces can become excellent examples of your work. Revise papers with the appropriate tone and style for the company or industry and showcase the skills you highlight in your resume for a compelling writing sample.

Setting standards for your writing sample

A good place to start when refining your paper is to decide what you like about it. Do you like the topic? The format? The impact of the prose? Depending on what you like about the paper, refine it to strengthen its other attributes. Ensure your paper meets your writing standards for writing quality, tone, style, and formatting.

Select an excerpt or revise and set your focus

Ultimately, you’ll want to trim your piece down and create two versions: a one-pager and something under five pages. Consider whether your writing sample should include your entire essay or just an excerpt (or both to account for both versions). When revising an excerpt or full piece, focus on the job and your brand. Make sure the tone is appropriate for the job you’re applying to. Recruiters in every industry want to see your ability to synthesize information into something that is clear and concise. Then, consider your primary skills and your personal brand. Does your writing sample represent you, your resume, and your talents?

Polish your writing sample and add an intro

Every job will be different and will likely specify their word count or page length preferences for writing samples. As mentioned in the section above, having a one-pager and something longer (3 pages is a sweet spot) should help you cover your bases. Add an introduction to all your writing samples that briefly explains where the piece comes from and why you selected it as your sample. Here’s an example:

This paper has been revised from a March 2024 submission for an American Politics assignment that analyzed shifts in dominant political parties in the United States. I chose this as one of my writing samples because it demonstrates my ability to synthesize original research into a concise summary and accessible visuals.

Note: While you want your writing sample to be polished and professional, you still want it to be representative of the quality of work your future employer can expect on a regular basis. Make it pretty but keep it real.

Prioritize your objectives for your writing sample

1. Show you can do the job — What does the job require? Memos, articles, visuals?
2. Support your resume — What skills are you highlighting? Research? Communication?
3. Make it memorable — What do you want the recruiter to remember about you?
4. Make it relevant — Bonus points for pieces relevant to the industry or job.

Polish your writing sample to submit to jobs and be on the lookout for future opportunities to add to your portfolio. When you have that magical moment at the end of a project where you review it and think, “not bad, Me,” set it aside to refine into your next professional writing sample. Revise it to show: (1) you can accomplish the job you’re applying to, (2) you can do what you claim in your resume, (3) you’re a culture fit, and (4) you have an interest in the work.

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! 

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!