Students blog

One of the best decisions I made in college was joining the Pearson Campus Ambassador Program. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it seemed like an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Little did I know that one application would completely transform my professional and personal development over the next four and a half years.

Starting as a Campus Ambassador

I started as a campus ambassador in the Northeast Region alongside about ten other students at schools in surrounding states. I participated in focus groups, completed product surveys, and joined regional challenges. I also collaborated virtually with more than 150 students nationwide and met the sales representative for Rutgers University, helping to connect her with professors on campus.

The best part was that I could do it all on my own time. It truly felt like the best job ever. My Regional Coordinator supported all of us and was the perfect role model when I was just getting started.

Growing into a Leader

About a year into the program, I started to feel confident. I had mastered Teams and Outlook, found a rhythm with monthly projects, and built strong relationships with other PCAs, my managers, and my Regional Coordinator.

Then, in March 2023, I received an invitation from the management team. They wanted me to step into the Northeast Regional Coordinator role when the current coordinator graduated. I was incredibly honored to be recognized as an emerging leader and said “yes” to an opportunity that would open the door to so many meaningful experiences.

As a Regional Coordinator, I attended leadership summits in Austin (2023), Denver (2024), and virtually (2025). Each experience focused on professional development and improving the PCA program. They also gave me the chance to network with other leaders and collaborate with professionals across marketing and sales.

Exploring through Micro-Internships

I’ll admit I was hesitant at first to join micro-internships because I wasn’t sure I was “ready.” Pushing past that imposter syndrome was the right decision, as I completed four micro-internships between 2023 and 2026.

These experiences gave me valuable insight into the fast-evolving world of AI, market research, and sales strategy. I went from exploring technology and its applications in education, to understanding consumers, to contributing to business strategy, with each role building meaningfully on the last.

The Heart of the Program: Community

While I look back on my professional growth with appreciation, the people are what I will miss most. The PCA program is truly a community. From Texas to Florida to California, I’ve built not just friendships but also a support system.

The program brings together people from all walks of life who consistently uplift, challenge, and inspire one another. This connection lasts long after each project or summit ends.

And of course, a team is only as great as its leaders. The management team (Debbie Miller, Delaney Henson, Dory Thornton, John Howdyshell, Margo McIlroy, and Mary Frances Weatherly) were my role models and mentors. They created an inclusive and genuinely joyful environment.

It was the kind of place where you felt lucky to belong, not just obligated to participate. Their leadership made the experience inspiring, welcoming, and unforgettable. The Pearson Campus Ambassador Program is not just a program; it is a family. It was my greatest privilege to sit at the table.

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! 

Learning is lifelong and constantly evolving. When you think of learning, do you think of textbooks and quizzes, or digital tools and online courses?

In the past decade, learning has adopted a digital identity. These tools now shape how principles are taught.

As digitally trained students join a traditionally trained workforce, conversations emerge. This is clear in the relationship between Courtney and Allie. Both have backgrounds in speech-language pathology and a passion for science.

Courtney works in product marketing, and Allie interns under her guidance through the Pearson Campus Ambassador program. Although their college experiences differed, curiosity and empathy were foundational to the work of both.

Different Tools, Shared Curiosity

When Courtney majored in speech-language pathology, digital tools were just emerging.

Courtney reflects, "When I was in school, digital tools were only beginning to appear. Most of our learning came from hands-on practice, group discussion, and in-person collaboration. There were many times when I had to work harder to truly connect with a concept.

If tools like Practice Anatomy Lab or Pearson Interactive Labs had existed then, I know they would have helped me visualize and understand material so much more quickly. Those early experiences really shape how I think about supporting learners today."

Courtney’s experience with learning centered on collaboration and communication, both cornerstones of speech-language pathology. These still guide her approach to marketing and teamwork today.

In contrast, Allie’s learning relies on digital content and interactive tools. "I use AI to summarize articles and explore case studies. In class, we compare traditional treatment plans to AI-curated plans. We also have virtual labs and can earn ASHA-accredited observation hours, all accessible at any time."

Both experiences share the goal of helping people grow through science, though the tools differ.

Applying Shared Skills to Marketing

Now, Courtney and Allie work together at Pearson. They are discovering how their learning journeys complement each other.

Courtney observes, "Working with Allie reminds me how much learning has evolved. It highlights how important it is that we evolve with it. Her experience helps me see digital learning through the eyes of today’s students. Together, we bring that story to instructors and students through our marketing efforts.

It’s also been incredibly cool to see my speech-language pathology background re-emerge. Allie and I apply our shared roots in anatomy and physiology to science education and technology."

Allie shares the sentiment. "Working with Courtney has shown me that my skills can go beyond healthcare. They help me connect ideas, tell stories, and communicate the value of learning.

Working with her has shown me the benefits of intergenerational collaboration and evolving digital tools. Our weekly collaboration brings new ideas, projects, and ways of learning."

Bridging Gaps with Technology

One of the most rewarding parts of their collaboration is learning from each other.

Courtney notes, “Every conversation with Allie gives me a fresh perspective. I bring experience from industry and years of working with educators. She brings the perspective of a current student navigating digital learning firsthand. That combination pushes our work forward in ways neither of us could accomplish alone."

Allie agrees. "It’s the perfect example of lifelong learning. Digital tools like Practice Anatomy Lab and Pearson Interactive Labs let me study any time. I can practice skills with accurate models and experiments, and feel confident in graded labs. I work with Courtney to highlight these tools and the benefits I’ve gained."

At Pearson, learning never stops, and neither does collaboration. Courtney and Allie’s story highlights the power of evolving technology and mentorship. Combining different experiences unlocks the true potential of learning.

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! 

Once upon a time, “dressing professionally” meant stiff suits, painful heels, and neutral colors. But Gen Z has looked at that old rulebook and said, “Yeah, no thanks.” Now, they’re rewriting the dress code one stylish and comfortable outfit at a time.

From Conformity to Creativity

For Gen Z, what you wear to work isn’t about blending in; it’s about standing out. This generation grew up with stylish Pinterest boards, Instagram feeds full of aesthetic inspiration, and TikToks that turn “Get Ready With Me” into an art form. Naturally, they’ve brought that creativity into the office with wide-leg pants, trendy kicks, eye-catching accessories, and exciting colors.

The Comfort Revolution

Comfort is another big win in the Gen Z dress code revolution. After countless Zoom meetings in business-on-top, pajamas-on-bottom outfits, young professionals learned that productivity isn’t tied to a pressed shirt. Now, it’s all about polished but stylish comfort-core. Think soft fabrics, relaxed fits, and outfits that look good on both a laptop camera and in a conference room.

More Than Fashion: A Shift in Values

This shift isn’t just about fashion; it’s about values. Gen Z is calling out dress codes that favor any one gender, ethnicity, or cultural identity. They’re bringing authenticity and inclusivity front and center.

Natural hairstyles, cultural clothing, and gender-neutral looks are becoming part of what “professional” means today. They’re proving confidence and competence shine through, even in comfy shoes and an outfit with personality.

The Social Media Runway

And let’s not forget social media’s role in all this. Platforms like TikTok and Pinterest have turned “office outfit ideas” into their own genre. You’ll find teachers rocking wide-leg pants and chunky loafers, tech workers in pastel cardigans and gold hoops, and entrepreneurs mixing thrift finds with luxury staples.

The Future of Office Fashion

So what’s next for workplace fashion? Expect even more creativity. As Gen Z climbs the career ladder, we’ll see office style evolve into something flexible and expressive. Thrifted finds, sustainable brands, and even tech-inspired pieces will coexist.

The future office might not have a dress code at all, just one golden rule: wear what makes you feel your best. Professional style is changing fast, and Gen Z is the one setting the dress code.

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 Pearson Campus Ambassador (PCA) program has been an incredible journey. It shaped my college experience and professional development in ways I never could have imagined.

Through this program, I gained invaluable opportunities for networking, hands-on sales experience, internships, and personal growth. These have all set the foundation for my future.

I write this reflection with a heavy heart, as this is my final semester as a PCA. At the same time, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This program has been transformative, and I want to commemorate my journey by sharing how much it has meant to me.

First Steps and First Impressions

My experience began in the spring of 2023, when I first started onboarding before officially joining in the fall. From my very first All-Call, I was struck by the energy of being surrounded by college students from across the country. That sense of community immediately made me feel like I was part of something much larger than myself.

Early on, I also met my Regional Coordinator, Ryan Celestine, who quickly became a mentor. His guidance and support during that first semester made my transition into the program smooth and encouraging.

During that semester, I recorded and edited a day-in-the-life vlog of a PCA for the Pearson Instagram. It was a fun content-creation opportunity!

Opportunities, Collaboration, and Mentorship

By the end of fall 2023, I was eager to pursue new opportunities, which led me to discover Pearson’s Micro-Internships. These short-term roles provided direct exposure to managers within Pearson and helped me explore my career interests.

In spring 2024, I earned a Data Analyst Micro-Internship with the Higher Education Data Reporting team. There, I conducted data quality audits and supported a product data migration project. This experience led to a full-time summer internship with the same team.

During my time with Pearson, I completed five internships with Pearson through the PCA program—an achievement I never would have imagined when I first started.

Additionally, I also had the privilege of working closely with Sales Representative Rachel Calcote during the 2024-2025 school year. Her clear communication and strong leadership made the back-to-school season one of my best experiences in the program. These opportunities not only strengthened my skills but also showed me the value of mentorship, teamwork, and perseverance.

A Launching Pad for the Future

Looking back, the PCA program has been far more than a student role. It has been a launching pad for my career, a network of lasting connections, and a source of personal growth.

It is bittersweet to say goodbye. However, I carry forward the lessons, relationships, and experiences that will continue to shape my professional journey.

I am proud to have been part of this community and am excited for the next chapter of my life. I know the PCA program has prepared me 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! 

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! 

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! 

You’ve done the work having submitted countless applications, gone through multiple rounds of interviews, and even played the dreaded waiting game as you wait to hear from your dream internship role in DC! As exciting as it may seem, you will need to hit the ground running to set yourself up for the best summer possible! 

Easily the greatest hurdle in having an awesome time working in DC is finding housing for the summer. Major cities are notorious for having expensive and costly housing, and DC is no different. The capital is extremely small, and everyone feels it when it comes to finding a place to stay. You may even be unsure of how to find a place to stay for just three months of the year. Because of the massive influx of student interns every summer many places offer flexible summer leases, allowing you to pay rent for just three months of the year.  
 
Another great option is to search online forums for colleges and universities in the area. Some universities offer reduced rate housing in the summer and many students who sign year-long leases sublease their apartments from June to August—months that they go home. I found great success in making anonymous postings on forums for each university of the area, and had an excess of options! Because of how small DC is, and the major commuter culture, you can also look to rent in Virginia and Maryland, as these properties are often cheaper. Just be sure to look up your commute on your GPS before you close a deal! 
 

Another major challenge for many students comes as they look to their wardrobes. DC is a hub of working professionals in both government and industry, so finding a business professional wardrobe for ten weeks can become quite expensive. I recommend assessing what you have first. You likely already have a pair of slacks and khakis; many students may have a nice sweater or two. Learn to be creative and mix and match! I leaned into a lot of solid colors, and a lot of neutrals. Think navy blue, black, white, and maybe a pop of one or two other colors. This really makes your closet stretch and saves you tons. For anything you may want to add to your wardrobe, consider hitting a thrift shop or even look at secondhand apps online. There are lots of good deals and great quality to be found. 

Looking beyond housing and wardrobe, one of the most important things you can do during your time in DC is network, network, network! DC is unique in the sheer number of working professionals, present and future leaders, and policy makers alike, all bringing unique experiences and perspectives. Hardly any city compares to this wealth and breadth of opportunity. You must shoot your shot! Keep an ear to the street for professional meet ups and networking events, especially ones aimed at young and early career professionals. Don’t shy away from introducing yourself to colleagues in your workplace and don’t be afraid to set up a quick coffee chat, which is a great way to hear from people who’ve been in your shoes and have seen it through! Many are more than willing to share great advice! And be sure to make ample use of DC during and after your time in LinkedIn—this is how you stay in touch! These connections can be useful in answering future career questions or even serving as a reference or recommendation if you do the job well! 

A summer interning in DC is an incredible opportunity for professional exposure and experience and the opportunity to see what life is like in such a fast-paced and unique city. By looking at (and securing) housing early, curating your professional, yet affordable wardrobe, and making a splash at networking events, you can set yourself up for a successful and memorable three months!

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! 

Embrace being unqualified! I know, it might sound odd but hear me out. College is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone. It’s the best time to take risks and pursue opportunities that may feel just a little out of reach. Many of us, as college students, often feel we’re not qualified for the roles or opportunities we want. I can confidently say that during my job searches, I have run into the recurring issue of not having enough experience. However, being comfortable with the experience I do have, no matter how minimal, has given me the confidence to go after opportunities I might not have otherwise considered.

The reality is, not applying for a position doesn’t give us any better chances, so why not take the risk? I want to share why I believe we should be more comfortable trying for things we don't initially feel qualified for.

For one, applying when you don’t expect too much can take a lot of the pressure off. The best interviews I’ve ever had were for positions I thought I had little chance of landing. Going in with low expectations allowed me to put everything I had on the table without worrying about making mistakes. Often, the pressure to succeed comes from thinking we should get the position, when that may not be the case. Letting go of that mindset can set you up for success.

You also never know what employers/interviewers are looking for. There may be qualities and experiences you have that could make you a more well-rounded or multifaceted candidate than you realize. Employers may value things you never even thought to mention, such as transferable skills or ability to learn quickly. Sometimes, we underestimate what we bring to the table just because we don't meet all the listed qualifications. It’s easy to assume that a great opportunity is out of reach because it seems too competitive or too good to be true. But sometimes, those opportunities might not be as competitive as you think.

One of my favorite experiences with embracing this mindset was when I reached out to a faculty member conducting research at my college. As a new freshman with no knowledge of an existing position, I never even thought I would get a response and only reached out on a whim. Still, I decided it was worth a shot. To my surprise, I was quickly offered an interview and added to the research team on the spot! A great example of you never know until you try.

At my college, most students have to apply for jobs they don’t feel qualified for as part of the Co-op program. So, this idea is very accepted on my campus. But I can tell you from what I’ve seen that if my friends hadn’t taken these risks they would’ve missed some of their best opportunities! My roommate recently applied for several Co-op positions none of which she felt qualified for because she had no experience in her field. But she went for it anyway thinking all she needed was to get one. She ended up getting offered every single job! Another friend of mine saw an opportunity to apply to be on the executive board of her organization despite only being a 2nd year (of a 5-year program). She ended up being offered next year’s president position! The moral of the story is that sometimes we let insecurities hold us back from what could be some of our most exciting and rewarding experiences. You may be more qualified than you think!

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! 

Washington, D.C., our nation's capital, is a vibrant and bustling city full of history, ambition, and opportunity. Recently, I had the privilege of interning in Congress and studying in this dynamic place. While it was a rewarding experience, juggling school, an internship, and the stress of election season wasn’t easy. Here’s how I found peace and balance in the midst of the chaos:

Connecting with Nature

Amid the fast pace of D.C., I found peace in the city’s pockets of nature. The National Mall, with its sweeping views of historic monuments, became one of my favorite nature escapes. Runs to the Lincoln Memorial at sunrise and sunset offered me a unique kind of serenity, while trips to nearby Maryland and Virginia introduced me to breathtaking hiking trails and beautiful landscapes. Immersing myself in these natural spaces reminded me to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the present. Whether it was by watching the Potomac River flow or strolling under trees filled with friendly squirrels, nature had a way of grounding me in the moment. It was one of my primary avenues of peace.

Finding Your Safe Space

In a city as fast paced as D.C., finding a space where you can unwind and recharge is essential. For me, that sanctuary was a cozy local coffee shop. It became my retreat - a place to journal, read, listen to music, and enjoy a warm cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Whether it’s a park, a library, or even your favorite room at home, having a safe space to decompress and reflect is key to maintaining balance in a high-stress environment.

Interpersonal Networking

Washington, D.C. is the city of networking, where every conversation has the potential to spark an opportunity. As intimidating as it may seem, I used networking as a tool to interact with others, make friends, and build meaningful relationships with individuals in similar situations as mine. Some of the most meaningful connections I developed weren’t forged in formal settings but through genuine conversations about hobbies, career journeys, and life goals. Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. When approached authentically, it can be deeply fulfilling and transformative, even bringing a sense of joy and peace.

Embrace the Moment

Living, working, and studying in D.C. during an election cycle is a uniquely intense experience, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to witness history and be part of something bigger than yourself. I learned to embrace the city’s energy and cherish the moments of growth, whether that meant navigating my packed schedule, meeting new people, or simply taking in the view of the National Mall and the Capitol at night.

No matter how busy life gets, prioritizing your inner peace and well-being is essential. You can only thrive professionally and academically when you take the time to care for yourself. So, if you ever find yourself in D.C. or a similarly dynamic environment, remember to pause, savor the experience, and remind yourself why you’re there in the first place.

Washington, D.C. taught me so much about ambition, resilience, and self-care. It’s a city where dreams are sparked and connections are forged, but also the perfect place to find your balance and discover more about yourself. Beyond politics, I found peace, and that made all the difference!

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!