Students blog

Exploring Europe as a college student is a dream come true: charming cities, historic landmarks, delicious food, and cultural experiences around every corner. Fortunately, traveling through the European Union (EU) can be surprisingly affordable if you plan wisely.

Whether you’re studying abroad or backpacking during summer break, these tips can help you make the most of your European adventure without breaking the bank.

1. Stay in Hostels or Student-Friendly Accommodations

Hostels in Europe are not only budget-friendly but also great for meeting fellow travelers. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com allow you to filter by location, price, and ratings. Many hostels offer free breakfasts, walking tours, and social events, making them perfect for students traveling solo or in small groups.

2. Plan Around Local Events and Walking Tours

Most major European cities offer free walking tours led by local guides (though tips are appreciated). These tours are an excellent way to learn about a city’s history, hidden gems, and best eats. Additionally, keep an eye on local festivals, open-air concerts, and public markets for free cultural experiences.

3. Travel Smart with Rail and Budget Airlines

The EU’s train network is extensive and easy to navigate. For students visiting multiple countries, the Eurail Global Pass offers flexible and economical train travel across thirty-three European nations.

If you're short on time, budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer incredibly cheap flights. However, be mindful of luggage restrictions and additional fees. Pro tip: Pack light and always compare travel times and costs before booking.

4. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Many museums, historical landmarks, and cultural sites across the EU offer discounted (or even free) admission to students. Popular attractions like the Louvre, the Colosseum, and the Berlin State Museums offer reduced entry fees with a valid student ID or proof of university enrollment. Before visiting, check the official websites for student pricing, and bring your student ID or an enrollment letter to save money at the door.

With the proper preparation and a student ID in hand, Europe is more accessible than you think. Travel safely, stay curious, and enjoy every moment of your EU adventure!

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 realized I was spending too much time online when I started feeling ashamed of my phone’s screen time usage. Instagram? Three hours. TikTok? At least four hours. And that didn’t even include the time spent on my PC or laptop.

Every single day, I was spending a minimum of seven hours aimlessly scrolling. The guilt of wasting so much time nudged me toward change.

Aligning My Time with My Life

I started with a self-imposed TikTok ban. While short-lived, I suddenly found myself with a hole in my day. My attention span was scattered. Instead of filling my life with tangible hobbies, I just scrolled on other platforms.

I didn’t want my life to continue like that—just university, work, phone, and bed. I wanted a life full of new experiences and genuine enjoyment. I wanted to share those moments with others for the simple pleasure of connection.

Committing to reducing my overall screen time helped me rediscover activities that bring me joy and allowed me to make better use of my time. It resulted in an improvement in my attention span and a deeper connection with loved ones.

Improving My Focus

When you suddenly have an extra seven hours a day, it feels weird. It took me a while to rediscover what I actually like to do. I tried a variety of new activities—everything from knitting to reading to jewelry making.

One activity that stuck was reading. I finished three books during the first week of my digital detox.

At first, I struggled to focus. I would read a page, and my mind would wander. My first impulse was to check my phone, and if I gave in, it would lead back to mindless scrolling.

It was hard to sit with just one thing: reading a book. Even getting through a few pages felt challenging. But by keeping my phone out of reach, I found it easier to resist those impulses and stay focused.

After just a week or two, I could read more than one hundred pages without even thinking about my phone. That improved focus began to trickle into other areas of my life as well.

Connecting More Meaningfully

An unexpected side effect of reducing screen time was reconnecting with loved ones. Social media can connect us, but I’ve realized those connections don't feel as deep.

With less screen time and social media, I began to see which connections were truly meaningful. When connecting with me wasn’t as convenient, who still reached out? Who did I want to talk to or spend time with in the real world?

I started calling people more often and having meaningful conversations. Using our actual voices allows us to connect on a deeper level. We can be more vulnerable and honest.

It’s easier to feel seen and understood—even about small, mundane things. I could hear someone’s joy as they described their breakfast or their exhaustion after a long day at work. These moments of connection felt real and more fulfilling.

Mindful Screen Time

Screen use may be an inevitable part of life but cutting out my unnecessary and unproductive habits has been transformative.

I’ve been able to focus more deeply on whatever I’m doing and be fully present. My significant increase in reading has been a tangible measurement of how much my focus has improved. I’ve also deepened my ability to connect with people on a more genuine level.

Ultimately, phones should be tools—tools we use consciously and mindfully. They can be all-consuming, but I’ve learned they are only as disruptive as I allow them to be.

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 arrived at college, I was looking for a way to earn extra money. I didn’t put much thought into the jobs I was applying for—if it paid, I was interested.

Fast forward a couple of years, and those "just for the paycheck" jobs have shaped how I carry myself and communicate. They’ve also helped me recognize my unique value in the world.

Adapting to New Challenges

It started with small gigs: setting up events, assisting with tech at school concerts, and working as a campus ambassador for Pearson.

Each job came with its own challenges: waking up early, managing my time effectively, and solving problems on the fly. More than anything, these roles challenged me to adapt.

Gaining Real-World Experience

I didn’t realize it at the time, but those early shifts were providing me with valuable real-world experience.

Setting up audio gear boosted my confidence in my technical skills and sparked an interest in music production. My job with Pearson helped me develop professional communication skills through my work with professors, sales and marketing teams, and students. I also learned how to manage a schedule packed with meetings and responsibilities.

I learned that being punctual, asking thoughtful questions, and showing genuine effort go a long way, no matter what your job title is.

Seeing the Results in Interviews

My biggest turning point was realizing that these weren’t just “college jobs.” They were preparation for real-world opportunities.

I started to notice how the communication skills I had developed helped me land internships. I walked into interviews with more confidence, ready to share stories about working with a team, overcoming challenges, and taking initiative.

From Campus to Career

If you’re in college and wondering how to get career-ready, don’t underestimate the value of your campus jobs. You don’t have to wait until graduation to start building your future.

Every role, no matter how small, offers valuable lessons if you pay attention. And who knows? That confidence in your work ethic might be the deciding factor for a hiring manager one day.

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 applied for an internship at the U.S. District Court, I mistakenly thought it was for the U.S. Attorney's Office. Although these are very different places of employment, they share the same website, and the job listing didn't specify the department.

Throughout the hiring process, I referenced attorneys and former interns at the U.S. Attorney's Office, hoping to show I was a credible, well-researched candidate. When I received a call offering me the position, I thanked them for the opportunity at the United States Attorney's Office. Yet, no one corrected my error. It wasn't until my first day, as I walked into the Gene Snyder Courthouse, that I realized I had applied for a completely different role.

I would not be working with court documents or assisting attorneys on cases. I would not be interpreting legal proceedings or analyzing crime scenes. In fact, I wouldn't even be working with attorneys. Instead, I would oversee everyone's favorite civic obligation: jury duty.

First Day in the Courthouse

My first day was challenging. I was immediately thrown into the bullpen: checking jurors in, issuing numbered badges, and briefing them on the selection process. I quickly learned that for many Louisvillians, jury duty is their first and only interaction with the court system.

Many citizens arrive at the courthouse feeling scared, frustrated, and confused. They're unsure why they were summoned and upset about missing work or caregiving responsibilities for what they perceive as "pointless work."

While I can understand why jury duty doesn't top anyone's list of favorite activities, it's still a powerful civic responsibility we accept when registering to vote. Coming to jury duty prepared and willing to sacrifice an afternoon (or sometimes many) is a beautiful responsibility we all share. It is part of what makes the United States such a remarkable place to live.

Observing the Judicial Process

After the initial selection, attorneys for both sides narrowed the sixty-juror pool to about fourteen individuals. As these participants checked in with me each day, I watched them begin to grasp the true weight of their role.

Over time, their respect for the court system deepened. They listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and took seriously the responsibility of determining the facts in a case. In federal court, the stakes were often high, and jurors knew their decisions could significantly impact someone's life.

Through their eyes, I also began to see the court system differently. I looked forward to coming to work and witnessing individuals with no formal legal training fall in love with the law. It made me fall deeper in love with it as well.

Embracing Civic Engagement

As a political science student, I started to view these jurors not just as individuals fulfilling a legal obligation but as temporary stewards of justice. They were active players in a system designed to be "by the people, for the people."

In many ways, my internship turned out to be far more valuable than I had initially imagined. Instead of working behind the scenes with attorneys, I was witnessing democracy in action. I watched ordinary citizens enter the courtroom, embrace their constitutional role, and legitimize a justice system reliant on public participation.

My accidental internship with the U.S. District Court offered me a perspective I might never have experienced otherwise. Rather than an insider's view of legal mechanics working alongside attorneys, I had a quiet observer's view of civic participation. This experience deepened my appreciation of jury duty and my understanding of justice as a collaborative effort between the court and citizens.

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! 

Moving thirteen hours away from home was an enormous step in my life’s journey. While studying at Howard University, I coped with homesickness by texting, calling, and FaceTiming my friends and family. Hearing their encouraging words and support kept me going as the school year progressed.

Yet, there was one family member who didn’t understand why I left or when I would return: Glitter, my sassy, energetic, eight-pound Yorkie.

The Language Barrier

Leaving my “precious baby” four states away for months at a time was one of the most emotionally challenging experiences I’ve ever faced. Not only had we been inseparable since I adopted her ten years ago, but she had no idea why I was packing up and leaving her. On the day I left for college, she tried to climb onto my suitcases, attempting to pack herself along with me.

I tried to express to her that I’d be back for Thanksgiving, but she didn’t understand. For the first few months, she spent her time whining and sleeping outside my bedroom door instead of in her cozy bed. Seeing her actions broke my heart and prompted me to create a plan to help other students prepare their pets for a big college move.

During the Summer: Transfer Care Duties

First, slowly start to shift responsibilities onto your pet’s new caregivers over the summer. Once you move, you won’t be able to take them on walks, feed them, or give them treats. To ease this transition for everyone, gradually transfer these responsibilities to their new caregiver.

This process helped Glitter significantly as she adjusted to her new walking and feeding schedule with my sister, Olivia.

Before the Move: Leave Your Scent

Make sure you leave something behind with your scent on it to comfort your pet. Have an old sweatband, pair of socks, or T-shirt? Wear it around the house in the weeks leading up to your move. That way, your pet can have a personal keepsake of you whenever they feel lonely.

After the Move: Call Your Pet

Once you’re settled in at school, continue to check in on your pet via FaceTime so they can recognize, hear, and see you. The adjustment process may take time. However, seeing your furry friend run to the phone when they hear your voice is worth it.

Even though your pet may not “speak,” they still want to hear from you and know you’re looking out for them. Little check-ins go a long way!

Prepare for Change Together

Overall, following these steps can lead to a smoother emotional transition into college for both you and your pet. It helps new caregivers ease into their roles and allows pets to accept the changes that college brings.

Even though I may be away for months at a time, these adjustments seemed to help Glitter understand I still care. And the quality time we have together during my visits home reassures her. She knows we still have many dog park days, pet store visits, and pup-cup trips in our future!

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 used to think the only way to study was in total silence. I’d go to the quiet floor of the library, put in earplugs, and try to zone in.

It didn’t work for me, though. My mind would wander, or I’d get anxious just staring at a blank page.

Discovering Study Noise

During a late-night study session, I decided to try listening to lo-fi music, and I found that I really liked it. My study style changed immediately.

Now, I never study without “study noise.” For me, that’s a mix of lo-fi beats, ambient nature sounds, and sometimes even instrumental movie soundtracks. I’ve created playlists that include everything from soft rain to background coffee shop chatter.

It might sound unusual, but calming background noise helps me feel less pressured. It puts me at ease while working and keeps my mind focused without making me feel overwhelmed.

Creating My Own Sound

What’s cool is that I started making my own mixes using audio software I’d been learning for fun. I’d combine gentle synths, vinyl crackle effects, and recordings to personalize the vibe.

Creating those sounds became a form of self-care. When I shared them with friends, I discovered that a lot of other students were looking for the same thing.

Since then, my “study noise” playlists have become just as essential as my textbooks. They help me stay focused during exam season, unwind while reviewing my notes, and even get through long readings when I’m feeling drained.

Learning What Works

I encourage every student to explore their focus style. Try different sounds, like lo-fi, classical, or soft jazz, to see what works for you.

You don’t need fancy gear, just headphones and an open mind. Your grades (and your stress levels) will thank you.

If silence doesn’t work for you, you’re not alone. The solution might be as simple as pressing play.

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! 

So, you’re thinking about a master’s degree. Or maybe you’ve already started one. Either way, welcome! You’re in good company.

I entered college knowing I wanted to apply for my school’s five-year Master’s of Education program—but honestly? It was still scary.

Course planning, advisor meetings, recommendation letters, and essays were all part of the climb. When the long-awaited acceptance finally arrived (yay!), I felt like I’d climbed a mountain.

But then came the reality check: I still had to complete the program. Cue the overwhelm.

Master Your Master’s

Whether you’re at the beginning or somewhere in the middle, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and questions. The good news? You’re not alone.

Here are some tips I’ve learned that can help you not just survive but master your master’s.

Know Your Why

Before anything else, ask yourself why you’re pursuing this degree. Is it to deepen your expertise? Pivot your career?

Your “why” will guide you in choosing the right program and opportunities. Importantly, it will also keep you motivated through challenges.

Make sure your path reflects your goals—not just what seems like the “next step.”

Adjust Your Mindset

Grad school isn’t undergrad 2.0. Expectations are higher, and the learning is more self-directed. You’re not just absorbing knowledge anymore—you’re contributing to it.

You’ll lead discussions, apply theory, and think like a future leader in your field. Passive participation won’t cut it.

Be your own advocate, seek help when needed, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. The earlier you embrace this shift in mindset, the more empowered you’ll feel.

Schedule in Structure

Organization is everything. Grad school assignments are often long-term and not built for last-minute cramming.

Use your planner, calendar, or apps to break big projects into small tasks. Schedule time for deep focus—and for rest.

My favorite tip? A “Friday Reset”: spend fifteen minutes reviewing your week and prepping for the next. Small habits like this can keep you grounded and on track.

Build Relationships

Grad school can feel isolating, especially if your social circle shifts. I stayed an extra year at my university while friends graduated, and I felt that loneliness. But building connections in my program helped immensely.

Your peers share your goals (and your fears). Invest in those relationships.

Take Care of You

Be gentle with yourself along the way. Despite my preparation, I struggled with imposter syndrome when I started student teaching. I regained confidence by reminding myself that I’m still a student and new challenges are opportunities to learn.

You might start your program focused on one career path only to discover a new passion. That’s not failure; that’s growth.

Sustain Your Success

Pursuing a master’s is a decisive step. Whether you’re still considering it or are already enrolled, remember that you’ve already chosen growth—and that process requires sustainability.

By knowing your purpose, participating proactively, and planning your time, you can stay ahead of the overwhelm. Building relationships and taking care of yourself will make that success sustainable.

Now go out there and master your master’s!

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 an exciting time full of independence and new experiences, often accompanied by the first real taste of financial responsibility. With expenses like tuition, books, rent, and snacks adding up quickly, it's easy to feel overwhelmed without a plan. But with a few smart habits and simple tools, budgeting in college can be empowering rather than restrictive. You don't need to sacrifice fun to stay financially healthy; you just need a strategy.

Track Your Spending and Make a Simple Budget

The first step to gaining control of your finances is knowing where your money goes. Use free apps like Mint, EveryDollar, or a basic spreadsheet to track your spending. Break it down into categories: food, rent, school supplies, transportation, and entertainment.

Once you have a clear picture of your spending, create a monthly budget with realistic spending limits. Budgeting doesn't mean you can't enjoy your daily coffee; it just helps you choose what's worth spending now and what can wait.

Remember Student Discounts and Free Resources

Many businesses offer discounts for college students—think streaming services, restaurants, software, and even travel. Always carry your student ID, and don't hesitate to ask about deals even if they aren't advertised.

On campus, make the most of free resources: gym memberships, tutoring centers, events with free food, and loaner tech equipment. These perks can help stretch your budget without compromising your experience.

Plan Ahead and Build a Safety Net

Unexpected costs are part of life: your laptop breaks, a textbook costs more than expected, or you get hit with a surprise medical bill. Set aside a small amount (even ten or twenty dollars) into a monthly savings or emergency fund. Over time, this cushion will help you handle surprises without added stress or unexpected debt. Apply for scholarships each year to save even more in the long term.

Learning how to budget in college isn't just about surviving; it's about setting yourself up for success. Track spending, use student resources, and plan ahead to maximize your college experience without financial anxiety. A little discipline now goes a long way in building strong habits that will benefit you well beyond graduation.

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 used to fear an empty calendar. Any unscheduled time felt like a missed opportunity. Then, I stumbled across this idea from the Chinese philosopher Laozi: "A bowl is most useful when it is empty.”

At first, I didn't get it. Who wants an empty bowl? But after two years of juggling college life, I've come to understand the wisdom in those words. It's all about finding a balance between fullness and emptiness—between a packed schedule and intentional downtime.

An Overflowing Schedule

My college schedule has made me intimately familiar with the concepts of fullness and emptiness. During my sophomore fall semester, I was active in student government, club swimming, and my professional fraternity. Add a social life and good grades, and my calendar was constantly full.

That semester, I strived to keep my schedule packed. Any free evening felt like a defeat; I wanted to make the most of my time. However, this constant stimulation took a toll on my mental health. By prioritizing a full schedule, I neglected the essential downtime I needed for balance.

Rethinking Downtime

When I say "emptiness," I don't mean doomscrolling on my phone. I'm referring to time spent resting, reflecting, meditating, or journaling. Within a schedule, emptiness is unscheduled time for doing whatever you need. Even the most relentless workaholics need this kind of time. Relaxing downtime is essential self-care, something my generation (and I) often neglect.

Embracing Emptiness

I know many people who have said something like, "I am afraid to be alone with my thoughts." And last year, I was too. Solitude can be scary, especially when avoiding processing complex thoughts and issues.

However, over winter break, I started journaling, which helped me process a lot of what I was trying to suppress. Scheduling this downtime and using it intentionally helped me strengthen myself mentally. This allowed me to be more effective during my busy times. Now, I don't fear solitude; I cherish my downtime.

Less is More

Empty time isn't wasted time; it's potential. It's space for self-discovery, recharging, and being truly present. Like an empty bowl stands ready to be filled, open space in your schedule allows flexibility for unexpected opportunities and all of life's surprises.

During your next planning session, take a look at your calendar. Where can you create some emptiness, room to breathe, and time just to exist?

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!