Students blog

Living on your own can be a daunting task. I grew up with two younger siblings for the majority of my life. I always had someone with which to talk, joke around, or to grab a bite to eat. I always had those constants in my household. That all changed when I started college. After I finished unpacking the last of my moving boxes in my freshman dorm, I remembered walking my family back to their car and watching them drive off as I stood alone in the parking lot.

Busting the Boredom

I went to bed in my quiet room and woke up the next day alone in search of something to do. My eyes darted around the room and landed on an unopened puzzle box sitting on my shelf. The desk in my dorm room was far too small to complete the puzzle on, so I headed into the dorm common area and started working there.

Gaining Attention

When I first started the puzzle, I was prepared to spend the afternoon alone until I grabbed dinner from the dining hall. That wasn’t the case at all, though. Not only was the common area located next to the only trash shoot on the floor, but many people were exploring the different areas of the dorm before classes started up the following week. As people would walk by, I would wave hello while sorting through pieces.

Puzzling Passersby

The sight of a gigantic puzzle would often draw people closer and lead them to ask me what I’m working on and how far I’ve gotten. After answering them, I would always offer if they wanted to grab a seat and help work through the puzzle. More and more people would walk by the common area and more and more people would grab a seat or come back later just to work on a puzzle.

After a few days of doing different puzzles, I got to talk with a wide range of people in my dorm. I continued hanging out with them in the common room, even if we weren’t working on a puzzle. What started as a simple way to pass time led to me meeting so many amazing friends that I still talk to and love hanging out with. If loneliness, boredom, mingling, or adjusting to college life are getting you down, start a common area activity that could build community and spark conversation.

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Professors can often seem unapproachable. Oftentimes they are experts in their field, usually with a doctorate. So, as a college student, it seems that you have nothing to talk about, but you want to learn everything you possibly can from them. Also, if they’re teaching in your major, you want to learn more about what they have to say, and possibly develop a relationship with them post-grad to help you in your professional life.

As someone who has developed several positive relationships with professors, here are some of the best tips I have on how to develop and keep a collegial relationship with your professors.

1. Be a Good Student

This might seem like a given, but it’s my number one tip. It’s really hard to get a professor to take you seriously if you’re not taking their class seriously. Most professors are teaching 2 to 3 classes so there are a lot of students for them to meet and get to know over the course of a semester. Also, class participation is a great way to start off a conversation with a professor. Asking questions about course material or connecting something you saw outside of class with course material is a really great way to start having regular conversations with your professor. Students need to consistently show up, engage, and stand out instead of being those who miss class, sit in the back, or don’t participate.

2. Do Your Research

Your professor has to do research in their field in order to get a doctorate degree. You can look up your professor's name and find out what they did in their research. This might help you either figure out if this is a professor you want to pursue a relationship with or give you a jumping-off point to start a conversation. This is also a great way to show a professor that you’re invested in getting to know them because you took the time out of your personal life to do some research about who they are as a person. Additionally, people pick their research topics based on something they’re interested in, so this is going to be something they’re already going to want to talk to you about.

3. Professors are People, Too

Now that you started developing this relationship with your professor by talking about things related to academia, you can also start talking about things that aren’t necessarily related to academia. Talk about their weekend plans, their break plans, and ask them about their family if that’s something they share in class. Most of the time professors share pieces of their personal life in class and those are usually things they’re comfortable with sharing so you can bring it up in conversation if it’s something you want to know more about. For example, I have a professor who is from a country outside of the US, so we talked a lot about her time there. When she travels, it's something we can connect with outside of our academic connection.

4. Be Respectful

When you’re scheduling time with your professor, respect that time. They have multiple classes and have lives outside of being a professor. If they’re making time for you, you must respect that. Show up on time and make the most of that time that you have together outside of the classroom.

5. Stay in Touch

You know once you’ve developed a relationship with your professor whether or not they’re going to continue it with you outside of your university post-grad. A lot of times they’ll give you their personal email or phone number and it can seem really daunting about how to approach those conversations outside of your university. The best approach is to keep in touch every 3 to 6 months with a little update about what you’re doing related to whatever field that professor is in. Also check on who they are as a person and see what they’re up to.

All in all, developing a relationship with your professor is exactly the same as developing a relationship with any person; it takes time, care, and respect. But remember, it’s never impossible.

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“I’m Not a Math Person”

“I’m not a Math Person” is what immediately went through my head as I registered for my intermediate Macroeconomics class last semester. I wasn’t looking forward to this course at all whatsoever and wasn’t too fond of the content that was going to be taught. I honestly went in with low expectations and was aiming for a passing grade. I’ve always had a difficult time with classes that are math based or even just have a portion focused on numerical calculations. I am also more interested in Marketing and the creative side of Business, so Economics wasn’t that appealing to me. My mindset was to simply get through the class so that I could attain my degree and do what I love most after I graduate.

What Changed…

Although, I said above that I only wanted to get credit for the class, I still did my best to understand the class content and studied a significant amount of time outside of our weekly lectures. I truly thought I was only capable of earning a passing grade due to the fact that math was one of my weaknesses; however, that all changed within the first few weeks of the course.

My study sessions consisted of looking up videos online that could better explain more difficult concepts in detail and looking over lecture notes as well as adding my own notes to them. My professor did a decent job at teaching the content, but I still felt there were times when I couldn’t understand what he was saying or even get my questions answered by a classmate. When this first happened, after the second or third lecture of the semester, I decided to check out Pearson+ Channels during one of my study sessions.

The Solution: Pearson+ Channels

For those who may not know, Pearson+ is an eLearning hub with instant access to eTextbooks, videos, and study tools for student support. One of the tools that I found to be most helpful is Pearson+ Channels. Channels consist of mini-video courses that go over content that has most likely been taught in your classes. They not only have Macroeconomics but also a wide variety of topics such as Biology, Psychology, Accounting, and more!

What specifically helped me in the Macroeconomics Channels course is the teaching style of the instructor. Brian utilized language that made complicated concepts easier to understand. He also made the course engaging by having viewers follow along with a set of notes to fill out and by creating diagrams to explain various topics. I enjoyed his use of simple examples and how straightforward he was. This video series assisted me greatly in my studies and even helped me to feel more comfortable going to class, answering questions out loud in lectures, and feeling more confident going into tests.

Victory!

Pearson+ Channels aided me in gaining an overall better understanding of Macroeconomics. I was surprised at how this learning tool allowed me to have a more positive attitude in this course. I ended up not only getting an A on my first test but also an A in the class. I am grateful for the knowledge that Pearson+ Channels has given me and plan on utilizing it in the future. If you are looking for a learning tool that appeals to a majority of students’ learning styles and helps you to master the material to a certain extent, try out Pearson+ Channels – it’s a Game Changer!

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 our fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, simplifying your daily routine can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. By incorporating practical and efficient life hacks into your day, you can save time, reduce stress, and create more room for the things that truly matter. Here are 10 life hacks to help you streamline your daily routine:

1. Morning Ritual

Establish a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day. Start with a few minutes of mindfulness, a healthy breakfast, and prioritize your most important tasks. This simple habit can enhance your focus and productivity throughout the day.

2. Time Blocking

Group similar tasks together and allocate specific time blocks for each category. This technique, known as batch processing and time blocking, helps you minimize distractions and work more efficiently by focusing on one type of activity at a time.

3. Digital Detox Before Bed

Create a technology-free zone at least 30 minutes before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your sleep patterns. Instead, use this time to unwind with a book, practice meditation, or engage in a calming activity that promotes restful sleep.

4. Meal Prep for Healthier Eating

Save time and make healthier food choices by dedicating a day to meal prep. Prepare portions of your favorite meals in advance, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet throughout the week. This also reduces the temptation of opting for fast food on busy days.

5. Declutter Your Living Spaces

A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind. Take some time each week to declutter your living and working spaces. This not only makes your surroundings more pleasant but also helps you find things quickly, eliminating unnecessary stress.

6. Digital Organization with Apps

Leverage technology to keep your life organized. Use productivity apps for tasks, calendars, and notes. Apps like Trello, Todoist, or Evernote can help you stay on top of your commitments and reduce mental clutter.

7. Two-Minute Rule

If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This simple rule prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming. Tackling them right away maintains a sense of accomplishment and keeps your to-do list manageable.

8. Delegate and Outsource

Recognize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks at home or work and consider outsourcing activities that are time-consuming but not necessarily your forte. This allows you to focus on your strengths and priorities.

9. Mindful Breathing Breaks

Incorporate short mindful breathing breaks into your day. Whether you're at work or at home, taking a few moments to focus on your breath can reduce stress and increase mental clarity. It's a simple yet effective way to stay centered and calm.

10. Weekly Reflection and Planning

Dedicate time each week to reflect on the past week's accomplishments and challenges. Use this insight to plan the upcoming week and set realistic goals and priorities. Regular reflection helps you adjust your routine for continuous improvement.

Simplifying your daily routine is not about cutting corners; it's about optimizing your time and energy to live a more fulfilling life. By incorporating these 10 life hacks, you can create a smoother, more streamlined routine that allows you to focus on what truly matters, leading to a happier and more balanced 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! 

Martin Luther King, Jr. has long been included within many schools’ curriculum for his perseverance against racism and standing up for civil rights. We are taught at an early age of the significance of peaceful protests and how effective it was during the civil rights movement. King’s impact is still felt within our schools. Students throughout the nation protest for different reasons and do so in a manner that reflects the methods used in the 1960s. They protest by peacefully marching through campuses or living spaces, harming nobody to make their voices heard.

King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in 1963, paved the way for an integrated and inclusive future. He made it possible for us to have a space where people of all different colors, cultures, and backgrounds can work and learn together while admiring one another’s differences. If it were not for pioneers such as King, our modern-day campuses would not be what they are today. Students throughout campuses are familiar with his speeches and letters such as the “Letter from Birmingham Jail” which showcases his fearless and resistant soul.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday that occurs each year on the third Monday of January, usually falling on or near King’s actual birthday of January 15th. Also referred to as MLK Day, this day allows us as Americans to remember the sacrifices that were made to create a better future for us. The civil rights activists fought during a time where they could be harmed and/or killed for voicing their opinions about equality. Leaders like King spoke profoundly and walked valiantly throughout the streets in the United States of America, all the way to the streets of Washington, so the frustrations of the citizens could be heard around the world.

Take a moment on Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year to remember the turmoil that Americans faced prior to gaining civil rights, the resilience they demonstrated, and how our lives have changed because of it.

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Pencil and paper, the most iconic duo, have been my go-to tools for the majority of my school life. But with the rise of technology in the classroom, thanks to shareable files, folders, and notes, I decided to make a switch to digital notetaking in my sophomore year of university. Examples of digital notetaking tools include tablets or digital notebooks and smart pens. Making the switch to digital notetaking came with some pros and cons. Here are a few to consider before making the switch for yourself.

Cons

Third-party apps: I immediately noticed that I would need to download and/or purchase one or more apps to even make my digital notetaking dreams a reality. I knew what I was getting myself into in the first place, due to extensive research, so I wasn’t taken aback by this concept. But I do urge others who are considering spending a measurable amount of cash on a digital device for notetaking to consider other unmentioned costs that come with it. There are many different apps to consider when looking at digital notetaking, and it all depends on your preferences and needs. Look at your course work and learning style when shopping for notetaking apps, so that they are the best fit for you. I found looking up tutorials and videos for different apps to be the most helpful for me to discern my needs and making the best selection.

Affordability: Choosing the right device for your digital notetaking journey is important, since you are the one who will be using it! However, this will take some extensive research on your end. Look for device brands and/or stores that offer student discounts. Also consider your after-college needs from this device; for example, will you be able to continue to have a use for this device after graduation? For me, I knew that I would want continue with digital notetaking upon entering medical school.

Compatibility: When I first received my device, I was a little apprehensive about the compatibility when it came to other devices (aka my phone). I wasn’t sure where everything was or how to use it and I was considered returning it (I know!). Having different brand devices can make it difficult to successfully set up apps and access between devices. But it takes time! Take the time to get used to the device, especially if it’s a device that you don’t really know. Watch tutorials and step-by-step videos, get used to the feeling of writing with the device and where to access files and whatever you will need.

Pros

Everything in one place: I enjoy having files, notes, textbooks, apps, and photos from class all in one place. As a commuter student I end up carrying a lot of “unnecessary” things. Having everything all in one place not only lessens the load but makes everything easily accessible so I can access everything I need for a class on one single device. Accessibility means shareability, so if a classmate missed a lecture or needs a recording, I can easily send them a file without that many issues.

Readability: I noticed that when writing with regular pen and paper, my notes were either too scrawny, smeared, or completely illegible. Writing digitally helps this problem immensely. With different notetaking apps I am also able to record the lecture while simultaneously taking notes and go back through my notes to see exactly what I wrote. I also noticed that my writing was much neater and easier to read when I transcribed things digitally.

Manageable multitasking: Although multitasking is deemed the most heinous of heinous of study tips, having a device that can split screen and allow me to multitask is extremely beneficial and time efficient. I am able to watch a lecture and write my notes side by side, making it more efficient and bearable since it’s all on one device.

Digital notetaking definitely was a transition but so worth it in the end. So far, I have enjoyed the pros way more than I have suffered the cons. A lot of people feel very apprehensive since it is still so new in the world of academia. Explore digital notetaking options and consider your own learning style. You may find it to be just as useful as I have.

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! 

When I first started college, I was just as nervous as the next guy. I was also excited, but worried I wouldn’t meet anyone or that I was wasting my time. I spent my first year hoping I would meet my best friends in a random class or somehow in a hallway. One day I was walking to the library, and I saw an individual wearing a “VolWake” t-shirt; now, I get to call this group of people my dearest friends because I decided to join that club.

The beginning of my college experience was anything but amazing. I experienced heartache, roommate drama, and confusion as to what direction I was headed. I found myself so miserable that I was considering transferring. I did not put much effort into being involved on campus nor did I use the resources I had in front of me to meet new people. I decided to join VolWake on a whim, and I was gifted my favorite surfboard, so I didn’t have much of a choice.

VolWake is the University of Tennessee’s Wakeboarding club; there are almost 100 members that are all college students who love to take part in water sports. I was insanely hesitant about joining this team. I was worried that I wouldn’t be good enough or that I wouldn’t make any friends. My first day on our boat countered my thoughts completely.

This team has allowed me to land and learn new tricks within weeks instead of months, and I am constantly surrounded by encouragement. My confidence on the water has grown tremendously. The people who are a part of this team are nothing but welcoming and talented; I am always surrounded by belly-laughs and amazing memories.

If you asked me exactly one year ago what my favorite part of college was, I wouldn’t be able to tell you; matter of fact, I would probably say travelling somewhere else. Now, I am surrounded by life-long friends who love the same things I do and enjoy my company. I couldn’t imagine a better group of people to spend my waking hours with, and I am extremely grateful that I have found my people.

With all of this being said, it is so important to get involved on your campus. There are so many opportunities and people that are waiting to LOVE YOU! Exploring all options on campus, no matter how terrifying they might be, can and will open the perfect doors for you. Take the risk and meet your best friends!!!

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! 

When I first came to college, there were so many new and amazing opportunities that were plopped right in front of me. It was incredible to see all the new career paths, adventures, and professional opportunities I could enjoy. Not to mention all the social events and fun that could be had just a 5-minute walk away on a Thursday night. These opportunities were both exciting and extremely overwhelming. So many directions opened that I felt like I was looking everywhere all at once. Then, once I met my mentors, I realized that college mentors can provide you with incredibly valuable guidance that you may not find elsewhere. The realization of the importance of mentors to me forever changed my life. My mentors have helped me socially, professionally, financially, the list goes on!

My Mentors

Just a few months after beginning my freshman year of college, I made the decision to transfer schools. Some people transfer early on and others, much later. Regardless of when you do, it can be overwhelming. I know the feeling of relief that comes with finally deciding to transfer, however, I also know the nervous more-like-bees than butterflies feeling in your stomach that you also get when you finally get to that new campus. Here are some tips that I learned from my transfer experience as well as some things that I wish someone would have told me when I transferred. Also, if you are still considering whether or not to transfer, these tips might also help you make that decision (coming from someone who went back and forth for months before deciding).

Go to the Events

I know the feeling that may give you, I also dreaded being the new transfer student at campus events – but I promise it’s worth it. It’s so much better to try and know what clubs or groups are a fit (or not a fit for you) rather than wait until senior to realize there’s a group you should have joined much earlier on. Going to these campus/club events will help you meet more people and make connections on campus – the sooner you do this, the sooner you get adjusted to your new environment.

Reach Out to Acquaintances

It does really help to know a few students who are already adjusted to campus as you transfer. When I transferred schools, I realized while scrolling on Instagram one day that a girl I worked with at a restaurant while I was in high school went to the school I was transferring to. I hesitated but eventually decided to reach out to her via DM to see if she wanted to get lunch sometime. The very next semester, her and her twin sister became my roommates and my best friends. We still live together today, and I can’t imagine my college experience without them. So, take the shot and reach out even if you feel nervous!

Don’t Pass Up Opportunities

Many of the groups I’ve joined and positions I’ve held while at my transfer school are the result of me applying for positions or going to events that I almost didn’t do. Looking back now, I’m so extremely grateful that I decided to take on these opportunities because they’ve contributed so heavily to my experience. Check your school email, talk to your professors and see what ways you can get involved – you will not regret it.

Transferring can be overwhelming but it’s so worth it in the end. Be sure to put yourself out there and take on opportunities, you never know where they might lead you to. If you’re still considering whether or not to transfer schools, I’d advise you to picture yourself at your current school in the following semester – are you happy? Has anything from your current circumstances changed? (Different roommates, new major, etc.) If not, and if you’re struggling to find reasons to stay, transferring is not a bad idea. Everyone’s college experience is different and no one’s is perfect. Always remember to do what is going to be best for 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!