Students blog

College students balance academics, social life, and personal growth. Unfortunately, staying active can get pushed to the backburner. Between the long study sessions and endless to-do lists, it can feel like there’s no time to stay active. However, staying active is one of the best ways to combat stress, stay healthy, and maintain a balanced lifestyle. For those of us who want to continue a sport we love without the intense time commitment, club sports provide an excellent solution.

Club sports offer an ideal balance of staying active while not overloading your schedule. Club sports are typically less rigorous but still provide the opportunity to compete, train, and bond with a team. I’ve experienced this firsthand as a member of Virginia Tech’s club competitive cheerleading team. When I came to college, I knew I wanted to continue cheerleading, but I was worried about the time commitment. The flexibility of the club cheerleading team allowed me to practice a few times a week while still having time to focus on my studies.

Staying active through club sports has had significant benefits for both my physical and mental health. On the physical side, cheerleading helps me maintain my strength, flexibility, and endurance – important components for staying fit in college. Mentally, staying active is just as important. College can be a stressful experience, with deadlines and the pressure of figuring out your future hanging over you. Engaging in physical activity has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and even improve mood. When I’m at practice, I’m able to disconnect from academic pressures and focus purely on the team and our routine.

Beyond the physical and mental benefits, club sports offer leadership opportunities that can be incredibly rewarding. After years of being part of the cheerleading team, I now serve on the executive board as the Treasurer. This leadership role has taught me the important skills of problem-solving, teamwork, and time management, all of which have proven useful in both my personal life and future career aspirations.

Being a part of a club sport also creates a strong sense of community. You’re surrounded by teammates who share your interests and passion for the sport, which fosters a supportive environment. It’s not just about the practices and competitions – it’s about building friendships and connections that make your college experience richer.

In conclusion, club sports offer a perfect solution for staying active, building leadership skills, and reducing stress while in college. They provide a healthy way to stay involved in the activities you love while still maintaining a manageable schedule. Whether you’re continuing a sport you’ve always enjoyed or trying something new, club sports are a great way to stay physically and mentally healthy during your college years.

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As college students, we are busy with academics, jobs, and maintaining a social life. In the mix of all the hurry, it’s important to give ourselves a break. There are many opportunities within each university to find these escapes, whether that be Greek life or joining a club. Club sports are a wonderful way to get active, find an escape from academics and have some fun, while still loving sports without being a full-time athlete. Over the past two years I’ve played club volleyball at Marquette University. Finding something to provide an escape from vigorous academics has been one of my favorite parts about college, and it can be yours too!

Why Club Sports?

Playing club sports can offer many benefits. First, it gives you a community of people who share the same passion for a sport. If you are a freshman, the transition may be difficult and joining a club sport can help you meet so many new friends. Club sports are a great way to stay active and help your mental well-being, offering a great outlet for the stress of being a college student. Club sports are a great way to continue competing in the sports you love, but not needing to commit as many hours as a college team. The time commitment will vary between different sports teams and different schools, but they seem to be very flexible and understanding of school and other aspects of life that take up your time. Most club teams will travel to nearby states and compete against so many different schools, fostering many new experiences and opportunities! 

My Experience 

When I was in high school, I was certain I wanted to play a sport in college. However, after meeting with different coaches and talking to my brother (who plays a college sport), I decided I was not passionate about my sports enough to commit to this level. My first couple weeks in college were a difficult transition, so when I saw there was a club volleyball team at my university, I decided to try it out. Fast forward two years, and now I am a junior going into my third year playing with my club volleyball team. I have met my best friends and made so many 
memories.

Our club team has practices two days a week and three tournaments a semester. I found that this club team offered me an outlet during the week and gave me a break from my homework and my jobs. I have met so many amazing women from other teams and have only had great experiences. 

If you played a sport in high school or just enjoy playing sports and are looking for a way to continue playing, join your university's sports club! Not only will you be playing the sport you enjoy, but you will be making long-lasting friendships, traveling to nearby states and schools, and more. Participating in club sports will give you the opportunity to be involved with your university and represent your school across the country. Club sports offer lots of competition but are also extremely fun teams to be on. Check out your university’s campus recreation pages and see if there are any teams that interest you!

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When arriving at West Chester University for my first semester in August of 2021, I was nervous about making friends. Even though I would be rooming with a friend from high school, I was still worried about making new additional friends. I moved into the dorm with my high school friend plus, two other roommates we did not know. It was awesome that we all got along from the start and found fun things to do while hanging out, like practicing our golf putting with cups. We ended up making a bunch of friends on our floor by other residents asking if they could try and put the ball into the cup.

Meeting new people is such an awesome thing we can do as humans. We come together to help each other or play different types of activities like sports. A great way to connect with new friends on campus is to participate in intramural sports. The first available Fall sport was flag football. We were able to make a co-rec and guys’ flag football team from the friends we made on our floor.

Another way I was able to meet friends was by going to the rec gym and playing basketball. I met some of my best friends at college through playing basketball at the gym. This also led to playing basketball intramurals as well as baseball intramurals. It made me realize that having a good group of friends to play sports or activities throughout college is key to having a positive college experience. Being able to play sports can help lower the stress that can come from too much schoolwork or if you get a bad grade on an exam. Having physical activity allows you to be in the moment with your friends and it allows you to take all your mind off your troubles.

College is not just about academics; it is also about building connections and creating memories that last a lifetime. The camaraderie you find through sports and activities not only help you unwind from the pressure of school but also enrich your overall college experience. Indeed, the ability to meet new people and engage in shared activities is a fundamental aspect of the human experience.

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Back-to-school, especially for a college student, can be an exciting time. You are seeing your friends again, and you are getting back to your “routine” at school or discovering your new one as a freshman. However, once the excitement wears off again, the saddest can start to set in. Whether it is homesickness or senioritis, being back in school can become more sad and less exciting as the months go on. As a student going into their senior year, here are a few tips I have to help you combat the back-to-school blues.

Tip for Every Day: Have a Morning/Nighttime Routine

I am truly speaking to myself as well as I encourage you to start having a routine when you wake up and when you go to bed. This is psychologically proven to make your day better. When you do something for yourself and have a routine, it helps get you going in the morning and wind down every night. Some recommendations I have for the morning are doing a skincare routine, showering, having coffee and reading a book, or even just writing a few things you are grateful for every morning. In the nighttime, you can do similar things that you didn’t do in the morning, like reading or showering, or even reflecting on your day by writing in a journal.

Tip for Every Week: Give Yourself a Weekend Treat

Although sweet treat trips can happen any time, it is important to give yourself a little reward for finishing the week. This could be a trip to the movies, getting your nails done, or something as little as getting ice cream with friends. The key is to make sure it isn’t the same thing every week. It helps encourage you and remind yourself of all the hard things you do every day, and how worthy you are of a reward for them occasionally, even if no one else is noticing your work.

Tip for Every Month: Plan Something Fun and Unique Once a Month

Having something to look forward to is one of the easiest ways to break the sadness or mundaneness of your everyday routine. Whether it’s a trip out of town with friends, a concert, or even just a staycation, it is important to have something “big” and fun to look forward to once a month. This helps for when things get hard, you can use your upcoming plans to encourage yourself to push through. Once the honeymoon phase of a new school year wears off, winter break can look years away. So, keep yourself encouraged by spicing up your life and rewarding yourself for doing the hard things. You can do hard things!

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Entering a new environment such as college can be an incredibly overwhelming experience for many people. All too often, students entering their freshman year don’t adapt well to their new environment, leading to feelings of loneliness, stress, and in the worst cases, depression. One way to help new freshmen adapt to campus life is to join student led organizations on campus. Student organizations can offer a variety of benefits, including a sense of belonging, new and enhanced social connections, as well as the opportunity for personal growth. However, equally important is finding the right organization to be a part of. Here are my tips for finding the perfect
organization for your college experience.

Know Yourself

The first and most important part of finding the right organization, is understanding your personality, values, and goals. Not every organization on campus will reflect your personality, and that’s perfectly normal! It is important that you stay genuine to your beliefs. Changing your personality and values to join an organization will not elevate your college experience. Instead, find organizations that mirror who you’d like to see yourself become. When you are in the recruitment phase, it is important to ask yourself, “Do I see myself building long-term relationships with these people?” Additionally, many student organizations are positioned around certain majors, hobbies, or identities. If you are particularly passionate about a certain activity or way you identify yourself, it is likely there is an organization for like-minded individuals.

Reach Out

Don’t expect organizations to be lining up at your doorstep to recruit you. You’ll need to be proactive in finding out when, where, and how organizations recruit new members. Often the most difficult part of the recruitment process is making yourself seen. This can be scary and challenging, but along the way you’ll meet new people and learn more about the organization. If you already have prior connections at your prospective school, do not hesitate to contact them and ask for their advice. The individuals who have already experienced the recruitment process will often have the best advice for you. There are also numerous resources on every campus to help you on your journey.

Attend Student Organization Interest Events

Most campuses have some type of event at the beginning of each semester in which student organizations where each organization will have a designated table in a specified place. This will likely be your best opportunity to explore what’s offered because every accredited organization will be in one place at the same time. Introduce yourself to every table and try to find out more about each organization. Many of them will include a sign-up sheet as well. If you find an organization you like, make sure they have your contact information for follow up. Additionally, depending on your school, they may host several student org. events for differing kinds of organizations. For example, if you’d like to rush a fraternity or sorority, a “Meet the Greek” night is your best chance to learn more about Greek life.

Reevaluate before Committing

During your recruitment process, take a step back and evaluate the organization you intend to join. As you proceed in the recruitment process, you will quickly learn more about the organization and the people involved. Be sure to ask yourself, “what do I like about this organization?” and “what don’t I like about this organization?” Weigh the pros and cons of every organization and determine which organization you believe is the best fit. Most importantly, never become discouraged if you haven’t found the perfect organization yet. It is never too late to find your organization. Happy recruitment!

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One of the first things I think about when reflecting on my college experience is my roommates who have been with me the whole time. I have three roommates and somehow, we have managed to live together since the first year. We get stressed at times and do not always get along perfectly, but we have a rhythm that works for us.

Finding good roommates is not always easy, especially when you do not know anyone else going to your college. Relax, though, it will be ok. Here are some tips I have learned on how to have a good relationship with roommates!

Most, if not all, universities, and colleges with on campus living have a survey for residents to fill out to find roommates their first year. Personally, I was very skeptical about how this survey would work, but looking back, I should have trusted the system more. Here’s why! Before move-in day, I had only briefly met one of my three roommates, and I was anxious about not getting along with them. There was one roommate I knew, so we met up to talk and get to know each other better, and I discovered that she was not worried in the least about the other two roommates neither of us knew. So, I decided to take a page out of her book and stop worrying so much about it. In the end, my worries were unfounded because this school year is my fourth year with the same roommates. Everything worked out better than I could have imagined, and it would have been a lot easier on me if I had just trusted it would be ok and relaxed.

When my roommates and I first started living together, we each were trying to figure out how to live with people besides our families. It was a gradual process, but we learned two key points that helped us live together:

• First, communication is key! If you need help with the chores or do not like the way someone does something, talk to your roommate(s) about it. They might not know it is bothering you and will try to compromise with you once it is brought to their attention.
• Second, do your part. If everyone in the room is contributing one way or another there is likely to be less frustration and arguments.
  

In the end, every roommate group is different and has a different “system” that must be used and followed so everyone gets along. You do not have to be best friends with your roommates, but you also want to live peacefully with one another. That said, the biggest and most helpful advice I can give is to find the system that works for everyone in the room and follow it. After living with my roommates for about 4 years, this is what has helped me the most. I hope this helps you too!

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 was entering my freshman year of college, I was extremely nervous and anxious, especially since this would be my first time being on my own. College is a thrilling time and all these possibilities were spinning through my head- what will my day to day be like? How will I make friends? What should I bring with me and what should I keep at home? I understand the magnitude of questions that can go through someone’s head when just entering college, so I want to offer a guide I wish I knew about for anyone going down this journey.

1. Get involved quickly:

Something I wish I did faster was to put myself out there. Join student organizations and extracurriculars. These spaces are great if you are trying to meet people and make friends, and it is also an amazing resume builder. Also, it is completely normal to feel intimidated when considering what activities to join, especially when you don’t know anyone there. But that’s the point - to make connections with others who have similar interests as you. Student organizations are generally very warm and welcoming to new students and showing your interest can be a great place to make meaningful connections!

2. It’s normal to be homesick:

Being away from home for the first time on your own, no matter the distance, can be tough and might be one of the biggest adjustments in the whole college process. Videocall your family as often as you can, and plan out visits to see them when your schedule permits and your workload is minimal. Staying connected is very important to keeping your support system throughout this experience.

3. Learning when to say ‘yes’ and when to say ‘no’:

Your friends will want to do things with you when you know you have a lot of work to get done or have a hectic day. Start by assessing what your priorities and goals are, and then figure out how this might impact you in your personal and academic life. This is the time you are young and figuring yourself out, so find what works best for you and which opportunities you don’t want to miss out on.

4. Get organized:

Academic, personal, and professional life can become chaotic if you don’t set a general to-do list for yourself. Try setting aside certain calendar apps or writing down in a physical planner the tasks and events in all areas of your life. Stay on top of updating that system as often as you can and take one thing at a time. (I personally use Notion and Google Calendar to organize.)

5. Take care of yourself!

Sleep, eat, stay hydrated, and get in some physical activity. Taking care of both your physical and mental health in college is essential if you want to succeed. Practicing selfcare will not only make you feel awesome and less stressed, but also is a great way to connect with yourself. Take time to listen and follow what your body wants.

I hope that some of these tips were helpful, and I hope your college experience is everything you want it to be. Best of luck to 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! 

Being a Pearson Campus Ambassador (PCA) has truly been an amazing journey, and when I started as a PCA I had no idea all the amazing things that would be in store for me. I am excited to get the opportunity to share some of that journey as I conclude my time at Pearson as I graduate.

Opportunities and Experience

One of the best things about the PCA Program is that you get out what you put in. If you are willing to put in the work, the opportunities will find you. As you get more opportunities in the program, you will gain some great experience that will help set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs and other external opportunities. In addition to summer internships, Pearson also offers micro-internships which allow you to complete short-term internship experiences during the school year. In my 2.5 years with Pearson, I worked two summer internships and one micro-internship in addition to my job as a Pearson Campus Ambassador and Regional Coordinator. These opportunities helped strengthen my resume and gave me a wealth of experience to pull from when interviewing and working different jobs. These opportunities also allowed me to get a better understanding of what I wanted to do for work following graduation.

Traveling

Being a part of the PCA Program also allowed me to travel to different parts of the country. In my time as a PCA, I was able to travel to Dallas, Ohio, New York, New Jersey, and Austin. Whether I was traveling for a special project, an internship, or a leadership summit, each trip was special, and I had a great time. Pearson takes great care of its employees, and that was made evident on these trips. During these trips, I got to visit different Pearson offices, including our corporate U.S. headquarters. I also got to meet many Pearson professionals as well as some of my fellow PCAs whom I had only met virtually up until that point.

Connections and Camaraderie

The connections I’ve made and the camaraderie that exists at Pearson and within the PCA Program are something that I will never forget. I had the opportunity to work with some of the best and brightest students across the country. I had the chance to lead and mentor some of the most amazing students across Texas and Louisiana as the Regional Coordinator of the Central Region. I got to see so many friendships and people blossom and grow because of the PCA Program. It allows you have a connection in almost every state and city in this program. Our managers, sales reps, and various Pearson employees helped promote this camaraderie and sense of community. Everyone, from the CEO and the Presidents to our respective managers, were easily accessible. In my time at Pearson, I had multiple sit-downs with the CEO, as well as meetings with the former President of Higher Ed and the Chief Human Resources Officer.

As you can see, I had a great experience as a Pearson Campus Ambassador. I’ve had the opportunity to do some things that most other 22-year-old college graduates can’t say they have done. I have learned so many transferable skills that I will take with me into my next role. Pearson was one of the best things that could have happened to me in my college career, and it is the best job you can have as a college student.

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! 

Spring is here! Many students have returned from spring break and are now headed full-speed to the end of the term. With the stress of impending exams and project due dates it’s easy to not take time to prioritize yourself first and pause to take in Spring. Here are some of my favorite things to do to make the most of this season!

Outdoor study sessions

This perfect in-between weather allows for the opportunity to sit out in the sun and study. Finding a great, quiet place to study on campus such as a park or courtyard will enhance your focus with the fresh air. Invite your friends to come with you and step out of your apartment or dorm.

Stay active

Take your workout outside! Whether it's going for a run, playing sports, or taking a walk, physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels. An after class walk around your campus with your friends is one of the best mood boosters for the semester.

Spring cleaning

Take time and declutter and organize the space around you. Having a clean and tidy space will motivate you to get through your midterms and finals which are around the corner. Every day try to make your bed and clean your desk to start and end your day.

Plan a trip

After those midterms you deserve a break from studying and the campus. Book a trip home or to one of your favorite places. Take the time to unwind and relax from the school setting and let your mind focus on yourself to take a breath. Having something to look forward to besides the summer will allow you to take some stress off your mind.

Practice self-care

It is important to prioritize yourself during the academic year. Whether it is going on that walk, eating healthy, enjoying your favorite hobby, practicing mindfulness, make sure to do something for yourself.

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!