Students blog

As a commuter student, I expected college to be all about academics with little to no social life. Living off campus, without a dorm community, and then driving home after my last class made it challenging to feel connected.

While others stayed for club meetings or late-night events, I often felt like an outsider. During my first semester, I wondered if I’d ever find a group of friends or feel a sense of belonging on campus.

However, things changed once I decided to be more intentional about getting involved, even though I wasn’t living on campus.

Attend Office Hours

One of the first things I did was start attending office hours, not just to seek help, but also to build relationships with my professors. Those small conversations grew into mentorships and even led to opportunities to participate in department events.

Form a Study Group

I also made a point to talk to classmates before and after lectures. Eventually, I formed a study group with a few peers, and we began meeting weekly at a nearby café. That group became my first real college community of the year.

Participate in Campus Events

I also got involved in campus organizations that accommodated commuter schedules, such as a leadership program that met during lunch hours. This offered me a chance to contribute, build skills, and make friends without needing to stay on campus late. I started attending daytime events, study sessions, and workshops, even though it felt a little awkward at first.

In Good Company

What surprised me most was discovering how many students were in the same situation. Other commuters, part-time students, and those working jobs also struggled to find time to connect. Once I started reaching out, I found that I wasn’t alone.

Being a commuter doesn’t mean missing out on the college experience; it just requires a different approach. Show up when you can. Start conversations. Join one activity. Small steps can lead to big connections. Now, I feel more connected to my campus than I ever thought possible.

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 Personal in the Political

As a political science student, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the foundations of our government and the principles that make America what it is today. It’s easy to get caught up in theoretical discussions about democracy, freedom, and citizenship—abstract ideas we study in textbooks and debate in classrooms.

However, my understanding has evolved as I’ve learned more about our history and political system. I’ve come to realize that these concepts aren’t just ideas on a page; they’re the lived experiences of people who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we now enjoy.

During my time in Washington, D.C., I couldn’t help but think of my grandfather’s service and what it has meant for my family and our country. I wrote the following letter to him during one of these reflective sessions. It was a moment where I found my work, studies, and family history combining into a deeper understanding.

Dear Grandpa: A Letter from the Capitol

As I sit here in the Library of Congress, looking out at the United States Capitol, I’m reminded of the symbolism that this place holds. Perched atop the Capitol dome is a 20-foot, 15,000-pound statue—the Statue of Freedom. This statue represents the triumph of freedom, both in times of peace and war. It’s a powerful symbol of our nation’s values, standing tall above Washington, D.C., and visible from many parts of the city.

During my time working here, I’ve learned about the statue’s significance. Tour guides often point out that it faces east, symbolizing the welcoming of new opportunities and the protection of the freedoms we hold dear. But, while the statue is a beautiful reminder of our nation’s ideals, it’s not the statue itself that upholds these values. It’s the people who fought for those ideals—people like you, Grandpa.

When I look at that statue, I’m reminded of you and your service. It makes me think of the sacrifices you made and how you fought not just for a statue, but for a way of life that we all cherish. The Statue of Freedom may stand tall in the Capitol, but it is your bravery, your sacrifice, and your love for this country that truly embody freedom.

As we approach Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve done for this country. I think about how you left your family and your life behind to serve and protect others. You risked everything so that others wouldn’t have to. Every time I pass the Capitol, I think of you and the legacy you’ve created—not just for our family, but for our nation.

I don’t say it enough, but I am deeply thankful for your service, Grandpa. I am proud to have you as my grandfather, and I miss you more than words can express. I can’t wait for the day we’re at your kitchen table again, debating politics and enjoying frozen Oreos together.

Take care, Grandpa. I love you.

– Riley Mai Maddox

Stories Complement Our Studies

It’s easy to get caught up in definitions, theories, and analysis while studying history and politics in college. But we all have a story to tell about our experiences in this country, and every experience is part of a shared history.

Sharing our stories and honoring our experiences helps turn our knowledge into insight. As valuable as textbooks are, we are the source of how those theories translate into real life.

Happy Veterans Day to all, and thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your story.

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 college students find it difficult to leave the familiarity and comfort of their room at home for a blank slate at college. Your room at home feels safe and uniquely yours. In contrast, college accommodations often seem cold, bare, and impersonal.

However, creating a space you love is essential for staying positive and thriving in your new environment. By adding personal touches and customizing your space, you can make college life much more comfortable.

Bring things from home to combat homesickness

This is one of the easiest ways to make your space feel cozier and instantly more like home. When you move away for college, bring special items that remind you of home to spruce up your new place. This could include beloved objects like a favorite coffee mug, a signed poster, or an accent rug. Surrounding yourself with familiar items can help you feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment.

Decorate with pictures and mementos for instant comfort

Gather your favorite pictures and photos and print them out at a local pharmacy or photo center. Then, display them in attractive frames or arrange them in a collage on your wall. Seeing familiar faces (whether they be family, friends, or pets) is always a wonderful mood booster and an instant source of comfort.

Soften the lighting to brighten your mood

Good lighting can completely transform a space. Adding a decorative lamp or a sweet-smelling candle can give a room an entirely new feel. A quick solution for a new dorm or apartment is a string of battery-powered fairy lights, which are easy to hang and turn on and off.

Replacing harsh overhead lighting with softer, ambient options can instantly make your room feel cozier and more relaxing. You’ll notice the difference right away.

Get crafty to create custom decor

Engaging in a little arts and crafts can be a fun way to create a decorative piece that you’re proud of! Do this alone for some relaxation and stress relief or with friends for a fun bonding activity.

Some project ideas include creating a felt pennant with your school name, knitting a cozy throw, or making a DIY picture frame. If crafting isn’t your strong suit (like me!), opt for an easier project. For example, you can press flowers or colorful leaves and display them as unique wall decorations or drink coasters.

Prioritize décor to ease your college transition

Transforming your new space into one that’s truly yours is one of the best things you can do for yourself during the college transition. Whether you bring a favorite blanket from home, create a photo collage, or add cozy lights, each personal touch makes a big difference.

It’s about more than just making your room look good. It’s about creating a personal sanctuary where you can relax, recharge, and become accustomed to college 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! 

There’s plenty of advice on how to secure and succeed in an internship, but much of it can be too vague to act on. After completing four internships, I’ve developed practical methods to achieve the goals outlined in countless “how-to-be-great-at-interning” articles. Here are my three best tips to stand out as an intern.

1. Ask the Right Questions

To appear engaged, ask questions; to truly impress as an intern, ask the right questions. If you ask about every detail mentioned in a meeting or pose overly basic questions, coworkers may quickly lose patience. Instead, handle simple questions on your own and reserve asking others about topics that demonstrate your curiosity and expertise.

For example, if your company uses a lot of acronyms, there might be a glossary or "cheat sheet" available. Or, if you don’t understand something at work, try a quick Google search first. That way, you can reserve your coworkers’ time for more in-depth and thoughtful questions.

2. Network with Purpose

Networking is crucial for career growth, but it’s not about meeting everyone in the company. Instead, focus on building intentional connections.

In my experience, this means reaching out to key individuals with a specific reason to connect. Senior managers and executives are more likely to meet with you if you have a clear purpose beyond a casual coffee chat.

For example, I discovered that our Product Development Manager was also an AI ambassador for the company. I reached out to share that I was working on an AI project and wanted his insights. This gave our conversation focus and allowed me to showcase my approach to projects and the value I brought to my team.

3. Apply Feedback

Being open to feedback is essential but applying that feedback is even more important. Everyone makes mistakes, so what will set you apart is showing that you leverage yours as opportunities for growth.

Jobs are collaborative and applying feedback can signal a deeper meaning to your team and manager. It shows that you care how your work impacts others and demonstrates your commitment to both the team and the company.

Final Thoughts

An internship can be more than a temporary job; it can serve as an extended interview for a career position. Moving beyond generic advice can be what sets you apart.

It’s not just about asking questions but asking the right ones: ones that demonstrate competence and awareness. It’s not about meeting everyone in the office but making meaningful connections while you’re there. And it’s not just about hearing feedback but showing you can learn and improve by applying it.

By focusing on these intentional strategies, you transform from just another intern into a valuable team member. That’s how you turn a few months of work into a career-launching opportunity.

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! 

Ever sit down to study and realize you’re spending more time trying to focus than actually learning? You’re not alone. I used to start study sessions with the best intentions, only to find myself distracted or doom-scrolling within minutes.

Over time, I discovered a surprisingly effective strategy for improving focus: linking specific subjects to specific places. Simply returning to the same physical location to work on the same subject helped me “get in the zone” faster.

Assign Your Study Zones

Pick a different place for each major subject. These spaces don’t have to be fancy or far apart. A corner of your room, a table in the library, or even a favorite café can work.

For example, I made the science building’s quiet corner my go-to spot for Calculus. I always chose the same section of the library for Chemistry. Physics? That became my Starbucks subject.

Over time, something clicked. Just walking into one of those spaces would cue my brain into the right mindset, and I’d dive straight into the work.

I first came across this idea during my sophomore year at Miami Dade College, before transferring to FIU. At the time, I was juggling Organic Chemistry, Physics, Calculus II, and a part-time job. My brain felt scattered, and switching between subjects drained more energy than the assignments themselves.

That’s when I started experimenting with what I now call “study zones,” assigning each subject its own home base. Over time, it improved both my focus while studying and my retention of the material.

How Your Brain Links Location to Learning

The more often you return to the same spot for the same subject, the stronger the connection becomes. This is thanks to the hippocampus, a part of the brain responsible for memory and navigation. It helps us create what neuroscientists call a cognitive map. It’s how we remember not just where we are, but also what we experienced in those places.

Spatial memory and learning are tightly linked, meaning environments can reinforce what we study (Weiler, 2024). When we consistently review one subject in the same location, our brains strengthen that association. This makes the information easier to recall later.

Study Blocks and Mini-Goals

I’ve found this method is most effective when I avoid long study marathons. Instead, I use shorter blocks of time.

One of the best uses of my study zones has been during my breaks between classes. I go straight to that subject's study spot and use the time to debrief. These shorter study sessions feel focused and productive without leaving me drained.

It’s also important to set small goals when you arrive at each zone. Before you start studying, tell yourself, “I’ll review two chapters while I’m here.” Clear, realistic goals help you maintain momentum while studying.

Get creative and think about how you can connect the spaces around you to your course subjects. By building this association, you help cue your brain to focus and make it easier to recall information. Creating study zones won’t give you instant laser focus, but it will remind you why you’re there: to study, not to scroll.

Reference

Weiler, Nicolas. “Space and Memory.” From Our Neurons to Yours, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute Stanford University, 22 Feb. 2024. https://neuroscience.stanford.edu/news/space-and-memory.

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! 

Clearing the Fog

The word “midterm” used to stop me dead in my tracks. Just hearing that exams were around the corner would send me into a full-fledged panic. This stress would run my brain so ragged that I'd enter a perpetual mental fog. Needless to say, I was a mess.

Despite attending my classes religiously and taking organized notes, I still couldn’t keep myself from burning out before major exams. That is, until one night, in a blind, chaotic spiral, I decided to go for a walk. After about thirty minutes away from my laptop, I started to feel better.

When I returned to my room, I sat back down with my notes. I noticed my panic had subsided, and I could study with a clearer headspace. After a few weeks of daily walks, I noticed my anxiety had diminished, and I was able to recall more information. It was as if the fog in my mind had cleared.

The Evidence for Exercise

The link between aerobic exercise and cognitive function is not a new concept. It has been widely documented across many medical journals and studies.

A 2022 review by Ferrer-Uris et al. showed that aerobic training three times per week for five weeks improved several cognitive abilities. These included executive function, attention span, information processing speed, and memory (Ferrer-Uris et al.).

A referenced 2011 study monitored participants for twelve months. After a year of regular aerobic activity, the physical volume of the adult hippocampus increased by two percent (Erickson et al., as cited in Ferrer-Uris et al.).

A 2025 article from the CDC linked short bursts of physical activity to improved brain health and function (CDC). The article specifies that an adult needs at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week for these cognitive benefits (CDC).

This weekly goal can be broken down into shorter intervals throughout the week. For example, you can exercise for twenty-two minutes each day or thirty minutes five days a week (CDC).

Steps to Success

I enjoyed night walks because of the crisp air and soft moonlight. However, if safety is a concern, I recommend walking during the day or at your campus gym.

For days when you want to stay inside, walk pads are a great alternative. They can help you meet your 150-minute weekly goal from the comfort of your climate-controlled space. Some people even set up a walk pad at their desk to use while working or in front of their TV to take a break.

If you enjoy healthy competition, consider downloading an activity monitoring app, like StepUp or StepsApp, to track your daily step count. A 2025 UCLA Health article suggests adults under age sixty need 8,000 to 10,000 daily steps for health benefits (UCLA). The StepUp app lets you invite and monitor friends' steps, which is great motivation for those with a competitive spirit.

If you're struggling with stress or burnout, consider adding daily aerobic activity to your routine. It can significantly enhance your cognitive function and overall health, helping you thrive through midterms and beyond.

Bibliography

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Physical Activity Boosts Brain Health.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed August 13, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity/features/boost-brain-health.html.

Ferrer-Uris, Blai, Cristina-Eva Gámez, David Olarizu, Luis-Millán González, and Ana-María Perelló-Amorós. “Can Exercise Shape Your Brain? A Review of Aerobic Exercise Effects on Cognitive Function and Neuro-Physiological Underpinning Mechanisms.” AIMS Neuroscience 9, no. 2 (2022): 204–226. https://doi.org/10.3934/Neuroscience.2022012.

UCLA Health. “How Many Steps Do You Need a Day to See Health Benefits?” UCLA Health, February 25, 2025. https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/how-many-steps-do-you-need-day-see-health-benefits.

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 hectic—especially when you're a full-time student working multiple jobs like me. Between lectures, assignments, meetings, and personal responsibilities, I was constantly worrying about the clock. I found myself sacrificing sleep and social time just to keep up.

I then realized that I didn’t just want to survive semesters—I wanted to thrive. That’s when I turned to online tools and discovered how they could help me better manage my time.

Step 1: Sync Your Calendars

Setting up an online calendar should be your first step. I synced my class schedule and assignment due dates so I could see everything in one place. The process is simple:

1. In Canvas (or your learning management system), locate the Calendar view.
2. Find the Calendar Feed link (this is usually at the bottom).
3. Copy that link and paste it into your preferred calendar app (Outlook, Google Calendar, or Apple Calendar). This option to integrate calendars is usually located in the settings of your calendar application.

I use Microsoft Outlook because my work and school organizations use the Microsoft Office ecosystem. I use color-coded categories—classes, work shifts, and personal activities—so I can quickly view my week and know what needs to be done.

My calendar has become my most-used productivity tool. It helps me avoid scheduling conflicts and gives me a clear picture of how to best allocate my time.

Step 2: Centralize Communication

Next, create a central place for all your meetings and conversations. I chose Microsoft Teams because it was already used in a couple of my jobs.

Teams helps me stay on top of scheduling collaborative work and events. This includes check-ins with co-workers, group project meetings, and trip planning with friends. I can also schedule meetings directly through Outlook, which syncs seamlessly with Teams.

If you aren’t into Teams, consider using Google Meet, Slack, or Zoom, as these platforms offer similar functionality. The key is to pick one platform and stick with it. Consistency across your platforms and ecosystems will make these tools more effective.

Step 3: Collect Your Thoughts

Finally, you should fully utilize a digital notebook. Microsoft OneNote has become my digital thought pad. I use it to jot down ideas, organize class notes, track tasks, and draft discussion board responses.

I created separate notebooks for each job and class. Since I can access them from any device, I never have to worry about leaving a physical notebook behind.

Other great platform alternatives include Notion, Google Keep, and Apple Notes. Each has its strengths, so choose what fits your workflow best.

Final Takeaway: Keep It Together

Microsoft tools are my personal choice, but you should choose the platform that works best for you. Whether you prefer Google, Apple, or another ecosystem, the goal is the same: to combine your academic, professional, and personal responsibilities into one system.

Effective time management isn’t just about staying busy—it’s about creating intentional balance. Streamlining my life with online tools has reduced my stress, and I’m now able to better utilize my time.

Syncing my calendars, centralizing communication, and capturing my thoughts digitally have been key to my time management success. If you're managing a full course load, multiple jobs, or other responsibilities, give these tools a try. They can help you better manage your schedule and create the efficiency you need 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! 

The longer you are in college, the more likely you are to become connected on campus. However, balancing these connections among school, work, health, relationships, and life demands can often feel overwhelming. After experiencing this struggle firsthand, I’ve picked up five main tips along the way: set early deadlines, create a study routine, practice self-care, take things one day at a time, and remember to have fun!

Stay Ahead by Setting Early Deadlines

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, set deadlines that are earlier than the ones your professor assigns. It can be stressful to realize too late that you have five big assignments due on the same day.

My go-to strategy is to start assignments early and begin with the hardest ones first. Completing an essay a week early reduces stress and leaves time for peer review before submission, which could lead to a higher grade.

Using this approach has helped me prioritize studying for exams instead of scrambling to finish assignments I’ve procrastinated on.

Improve Recall by Scheduling Study Time

Allocating specific times to study for quizzes or re-read chapters has been crucial for my success in college. While my study schedule varies from week to week, I strive to study between thirty minutes and two hours each day.

Actively recalling the material you’re learning is a highly effective way to retain this new knowledge.

Reward Yourself with Rest

Incorporate self-care into your routine. Set aside time for relaxing activities like stretching, applying a face mask, or playing video games.

To encourage a healthy balance with these activities, set a limit for them. For example, limit yourself to one mission in a video game or set a twenty-minute timer before switching to a more productive task.

There is no single “right” way to practice self-care. Do what works for you. If self-care means lying in bed for ten or twenty minutes, then do just that!

Take It Day by Day and Have Fun

Finally, take it one day at a time and remember to have fun! College will throw many curveballs your way: family emergencies, financial struggles, and more. But you’ll also want to make room for those core memories that will never leave your brain.

Be kind to yourself. College is a learning experience, and every year brings something new. Even if you’re a planner (like me), taking things day by day can help you achieve a consistent balance in your schedule.

Benefit from Balance

Ultimately, finding balance comes from a mix of thoughtful planning and self-compassion. Build a system to navigate the chaos of college by setting early deadlines, creating a study routine, practicing self-care, taking it day by day, and enjoying yourself.

The goal isn’t to be perfect but to create a college experience that feels both productive and fun. Discovering a balance that works for you is one of the most valuable lessons you'll learn in college!

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! 

Growing up, I watched my father build a high-end transportation company from the ground up. He didn’t have a college degree or a roadmap, just a relentless work ethic and the drive to succeed.

As a first-generation college student, that hustle inspired me throughout business school. I knew I wanted a career where I could build something meaningful, help my community, and create a legacy of my own.

I didn’t enter college with a network in finance, but I was determined to leave with direction, confidence, and a solid foundation. So, I got involved. I joined a sorority, became a part of the Pearson Campus Ambassador program, participated in the Pre-Law Club, and was inducted into my university’s all-Greek honors society. Each space taught me something different: how to lead, how to speak up, and how to navigate unfamiliar rooms with confidence. By the time I earned my degree in Business, I wasn’t just finishing school. I was building something real for myself and laying the groundwork for the career I envisioned.

Getting My Foot in the Door

Right after graduation, I became licensed in Life and Health Insurance in my home state and joined Bankers Life and Casualty. I now work with clients across Maine, Virginia, and Florida to help them plan for retirement, navigate Medicare, and protect their families through life insurance and long-term care solutions.

At the same time, I’m pursuing my MBA and preparing for the LSAT exam, with long-term goals of becoming a financial advisor and eventually a trust and estate attorney. As a current rookie agent, I’m learning that finance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the people. It’s about listening, earning trust, and empowering others to make informed decisions about their futures.

If there’s one thing I hope younger women in college take away from my journey, it’s this: you don’t have to wait to start. This is especially true in an industry where women are still underrepresented. The earlier you take action, the more prepared and powerful you’ll be.

Three Things I’d Tell My First-Year Student Self (Now That I’ve Lived It)

1. You won’t feel ready, and that’s exactly when you should start. The people who seem confident? They just started before you. Still, that doesn’t mean you’re behind; you are building momentum.

2. You don’t need to be the loudest to be respected. Listen carefully, speak with purpose, and know that your quiet confidence will grow into leadership over time.

3. The room might not look like you; go in anyway. You belong, even if you’re the only woman or the youngest in the room. Take a seat, take up space, and keep showing up. That’s how change starts.

Turning Ambition into Action

Stepping into the financial industry as a recent graduate hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. I’ve grown through every awkward client call, every moment of self-doubt, and every challenge that pushed me to improve.

I didn’t have a roadmap. I had ambition, a support system I built from scratch, and the belief that I could do something meaningful.

If you’re just starting out, know this: you don’t have to be fearless to move forward. You just have to be willing. Be willing to learn, ask questions, speak up, and keep going even when it’s uncomfortable.

This industry needs more women. It needs your voice, your perspective, and your ideas. And there’s no rule that says you can’t be the first or the one who changes everything.

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!