Students blog

Explore the latest trends, tips, and experiences in college life in this blog written by fellow students.

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PreK-12Higher EducationProfessional

  • A group of seven college students standing outside of a residence hall.

    Why Become a RA for your Campus?

    Royale Bey

    As I navigate my third year as a Resident Assistant (RA), I realize the role is more than simply a job. Rather, it’s a chance to grow myself, serve my community, and lay the foundation of who I want to become personally and professionally. I would be lying if I said the road has been easy; the role demands time and dedication. However, in my three years of experience, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges, making it one of the most rewarding endeavors I have taken on while in college.

    One of the immediate and tangible benefits of being an RA is the financial relief it offers. Most institutions offer free housing and meal plans to RAs, which significantly reduces the financial burden of college expenses, especially for out-of-state students. At my campus in particular, a bi-weekly stipend is provided in addition to the free housing and meal plan. Not to mention, the unique merch provided to all RAs on my campus at the start of each school year for move-in season. These perks have allowed me to focus on my education and academic responsibilities without the stress of juggling off-campus part-time jobs.

    While the tangible perks of being a RAs are great, the skills I have acquired in the role are invaluable. Whether resolving conflicts, organizing events, or providing guidance to residents, being a RA gives you the opportunity to serve as a mentor and role model daily. Though this may be intimidating to some, it’s a great opportunity to practice leading by example. The skills you can learn in this leadership role – communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution – are highly sought out by employers because they are transferable to many careers.

    Balancing on-call duties, weekly meetings, and planning events while managing academic responsibilities can be demanding. However, I have found this challenge is also a valuable opportunity. It has led to tremendous personal development. Learning to navigate a packed schedule and meet deadlines under pressure prepares you for the real world, which usually requires similar demands. Furthermore, this unique position has allowed me to make a lasting impact, not only on residents but on my peers and friends. One of the most rewarding experiences in my time as a RA was mentoring one of my former residents through the RA application process. Not only did she get hired, but we now work on the same staff where I can watch her blossom into an amazing RA.

    Becoming a RA is an unparalleled opportunity to grow as an overall leader, gain financial benefits, and develop critical life skills. While the role requires hard work and commitment, in my humble opinion, the personal and professional rewards are well worth the effort. For those seeking a transformative college experience, I believe the RA position is a powerful investment in your growth today and a stepping stone for yourself tomorrow.

    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! 

     

  • Blog author Madison wearing a graduation cap in front of a campus building.

    Overcoming Senioritis to Make the Most of Your Last Semester

    Madison Butler

    As a senior graduated from University of Arkansas in December 2024, there were some eye-opening experiences throughout my last semester that made it bittersweet. However, senioritis was at the forefront of my final journey. I wanted to be able to enjoy my last semester, but that pesky homework kept getting in the way!

    I started to experience senioritis before my last semester even began. I felt a lack of motivation, a hint of procrastination, and a list of distractions I can’t even begin to name. I was stuck in a rut and could not pull myself out. So, I set out to finally get a handle on these new emotions and found a way to motivate myself to finish the semester strong. Here are some ways that helped me succeed!

    Short-term, manageable goals

    At the start of my final semester I kept imaging what the ending would look like. However, I had to keep reminding myself to be in the present and look towards the next assignment. I bought a cute planner and a new pack of pens and felt like it was us against the world. I wrote out all my assignments and gave myself plenty of time to do them beforehand. I was also kinder to myself and let myself enjoy breaks in between but prioritized my homework above all else. For example, if I submitted my assignment that was due Friday night on Thursday, I could go out to dinner with my friends and enjoy my time there versus worrying about an assignment. Overall, this helped me collect my thoughts and go day by day.

    Stay Involved

    One of the biggest accountability tactics was to stay involved on campus. The clubs I was in and the friends I made along the way, helped me to stay accountable while having fun. For example, going to our weekly meetings and participating/presenting new ideas benefitted not only me, but the people I surrounded myself with. This also made me appreciate my campus a bit more because it would (probably) be my last time on this campus as a student.

    Be excited!

    Wrapping up a college career is a new phase of our lives so balance responsibility and celebration to fully enjoy these moments. I had a new outlook on game days, calling the Hogs, and late-night study sessions with friends at the library. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and stretched thin but try enjoy it while it lasts!

    It has been a long road to where I am at today, and I would not trade a single moment. The good, the bad, the ugly, the fun, and all those individual memories have made my time as a student unforgettable!

    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! 

     

  • A computer graphic with the words ‘Budget for Success’

    Budgeting Your Expenses as a College Student Living Off-Campus

    Kylie Guzman

    Managing finances as a college student living off-campus can be daunting, but with careful planning and discipline, you can stretch your dollars and maintain financial stability. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you budget effectively.

    1. Calculate Your Income

    The first step in budgeting is knowing how much money you have. This includes:

    • Income from Part-Time Jobs: Calculate your monthly earnings.
    • Financial Aid and Scholarships: Include grants, scholarships, and student loans.
    • Support from Family: If applicable, account for regular contributions from family.

    Understanding your total monthly income sets the foundation for creating a realistic budget.

    2. Track Your Expenses

    Keep track of all your expenses to understand where your money is going. Use apps like Mint or YNAB, or maintain a simple spreadsheet. Categorize your expenses into fixed and variable costs.

    • Fixed Costs: Rent, utilities, internet, transportation (car payments or public transit passes), insurance, and tuition fees.
    • Variable Costs: Groceries, dining out, entertainment, clothing, and other personal expenses.

    3. Create a Budget Plan

    Based on your tracked expenses, create a detailed budget. Allocate funds to each category and prioritize essentials.

    • Rent and Utilities: This should be your top priority. Aim to keep rent around 30% of your monthly income.
    • Groceries: Plan meals and shop smart to avoid overspending. Look for sales and use coupons.
    • Transportation: Factor in gas, maintenance, and insurance if you own a car. Consider public transportation as a cost-effective alternative.
    • Miscellaneous: Set aside a fixed amount for entertainment, dining out, and other non-essential expenses.

    4. Cut Unnecessary Costs

    Identify areas where you can cut back. Consider these tips:

    • Cook at Home: Dining out frequently can drain your budget. Cooking at home is healthier and cheaper.
    • Use Student Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts for everything from software to public transportation and entertainment.
    • Limit Subscriptions: Assess your subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, etc.) and cancel any that you don’t use regularly.

    5. Build an Emergency Fund

    Set aside a small amount each month into a savings account for unexpected expenses. Aim to build an emergency fund that covers at least three months of living expenses. This fund will provide a safety net and reduce financial stress.

    6. Monitor and Adjust Your Budget

    Regularly review your budget and spending habits. Adjust your budget as needed to stay on track. If you notice you’re overspending in one category, compensate by cutting back in another.

    7. Seek Financial Advice

    Many colleges offer financial literacy programs and resources. Don’t hesitate to seek advice
    from financial counselors available through your university.

    Budgeting as a college student living off-campus requires diligence and foresight. By calculating your income, tracking your expenses, creating a budget plan, cutting unnecessary costs, building an emergency fund, and regularly monitoring your budget, you can manage your finances effectively and ensure a stress-free college experience. Remember, the habits you develop now will serve you well into your financial 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! 

     

  • A group of orange pumpkins on a mulch covered ground and 3 pumpkins in a wagon.

    Cozy Season Chronicles

    Olivia Case

    Fall and winter are some of the busiest seasons. Whether you are in school, studying for exams, planning holiday vacations, or preparing for family gatherings, these seasons are often packed with activities. Here are a few of my favorite things to do during this time of year!

    During fall, I love to go to pumpkin patches. Not only is the atmosphere full of scenic fall vibes but it is also such a fun activity to do with family or friends! Spending time outside with your loved ones allows you to enjoy the crisp air, create lasting memories, and embrace the best of the season together.

    Another way to celebrate is by baking and indulging in seasonal treats like hot apple cider, eggnog, and pumpkin-spiced desserts. From warm pies to freshly baked cookies, this activity is perfect if you're looking for something more relaxed and cozier! It's a great way to connect with friends or family and enjoy the comfort of home as the temperature drops. If you're into the spooky side of fall, visiting a haunted house or haunted maze can be a thrilling fun activity.

    Lastly, one of my favorite indoor traditions during this time of year is watching Christmas movies while drinking hot cocoa! Some great Christmas movies to watch include classics like Home Alone, Elf, The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and The Holiday. Whether you're in the mood for laughter, heartwarming stories, or a bit of nostalgia, these films capture the magic of the season perfectly.

    Although this season can be packed with stressful assignments and tasks, these easy, affordable and accessible activities are great ways to connect with your community, relieve stress, and enjoy the best of the holiday season.

    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! 

     

  • A grocery store with shelving featuring various grocery items and yellow sale price flyers.

    Stretching Your Dollars at the Grocery Store

    Ayden Notaro

    Have you ever felt like every year, your dollars continue to buy less and less at the grocery store? You wouldn’t be alone in this feeling as many consumers across the country are burdened with the lingering effects of higher-than-normal inflation – the increase in overall prices. Even if you haven’t experienced a major increase in your food bill, you may still notice that the amount of goods you receive for the same price has decreased: this is a process dubbed “shrinkflation.” 

    As college students faced with already heightened costs of education, it is important to take every step we can to save money while living on campus. One of the best ways to do this is to take control of one of the main expenses incurred throughout our college experience: groceries and food

    While it may not seem like it, small changes in the way we shop can lead to exponential savings in the long run. If you find yourself feeling the pressure of increasing prices at your local supermarket, here are some ways to potentially trim your grocery bill and save some cash. 

    The first thing I will say is to stay basic. Grocery stores are carefully crafted to lead you through high-margin items into essentials like milk and eggs. So, while the 6 pack of chocolate chip cookies sitting in the bakery section may look tempting, it helps to establish a list of things you need before visiting (if you are craving them, baking them from scratch is way cheaper). 

    Another thing to do is to think cost-per-unit. This is something I noticed not too long ago and has changed my shopping process entirely. Instead of comparing prices, look at the cost-per-unit of the product and decide whether you are willing to pay a premium for one product over the other. Moreover, buying in bulk will often yield savings. Pantry staples like rice and spices can often be bought in seemingly absurd proportions, but making the upfront investment can be way cheaper than buying a bag that will last you two weeks. 

    And finally, never discount private label brands. For those unaware, private labels are products that are manufactured and branded by the retailer you choose to shop at – think Great Value (Walmart), Kirkland Signature (Costco), and everything in Trader Joes. Being made by the retailer means that the company experiences cost savings which they then pass onto you, the end customer, to stay competitive. In my experience, most private labels of essential goods rarely differ in quality from name brands.

    In conclusion, while inflation and shrinkflation are challenging realities, there are practical strategies to manage your grocery expenses. By planning ahead, comparing cost-per-unit, buying in bulk, and swapping to private-label brands, you can stretch your dollars further. As college students, adopting these habits not only eases financial pressure but also instills smart shopping practices that will benefit you long after graduation. Embrace these tips, and you'll find that a little effort can lead to significant savings, making your college experience more affordable and enjoyable.

    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! 

     

  • Two newspapers from September 12, 2001.

    Easy and Enjoyable Ways to Stay Informed in College

    Whitney Bartol

    For a college student, it is not an unfamiliar feeling to feel “out of touch” or behind on the news. Whether it’s a brief conversation in one of your classes, or even a pop culture joke between your friends, not having knowledge on current events can have you feeling left out of many circles.

    For me, it is not very realistic to order newspapers to my third story dorm room or turn on a news channel on the television I do not have. Therefore, I spent a generous amount of time looking for other ways to stay informed on what is going on in the rest of the world in a way that’s convenient for my schedule and entertaining enough to stay consistent. While these resources might not be the best for everyone, I hope I can provide some ideas or motivations on how to stay up to date with the news.

    Podcasts

    Whether you are wanting to learn about the stock market, foreign affairs or even celebrity news, there is most likely a podcast about it. Major news organizations such as the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NPR, and NBC all have at least one, and usually more, daily podcasts. They release frequent episodes ranging from 5-45 minutes with all kinds of news and current events. Podcasts are wonderful because they are easy to listen to either on your way to class, during a workout, or even just as background noise!

    A few of my favorite podcasts include:

    • The Daily by The New York Times
    • CNN 5 Things by CNN
    • WSJ What’s News by The Wall Street Journal
    • Pop Culture Happy Hour by NPR

    Newsletters

    Another one of my favorite ways to get a quick and consistent briefing on global updates is through newsletter subscriptions, which get sent right to my Gmail inbox. Just like podcasts, there are a plethora of newsletters on every topic ranging from quick bullet points to longer opinion articles. I find that these newsletters are great for reading in the morning, during a study break or right before bed.

    Here are a few of my favorite newsletters:

    • Morning Brew by Morning Brew
    • 5 Things You Need to Know to Start Your Day by Bloomberg
    • Worldview by The Washington Post
    • On Politics by The New York Times

    While my preference is newsletters and podcasts as a way to stay updated, you can also subscribe to news applications on your phone or even turning on the cable television. Regardless, it is important to stay on top of what is going on in the rest of the world, especially 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! 

     

  • A screenshot of the blog author’s collection of playlists.

    A Playlist for Everything

    Peyton Maria

    Growing up, music was genuinely the soundtrack of my life. Music was playing all the time, no matter what I was doing. When I was little, I would just shuffle all the songs on my mom’s iTunes, from One Direction to Taylor Swift to Counting Crows. As I got older though, I started to realize the importance of having music that was specific to the situations I was going through, or the times I was playing it. So, over the last few years, I have curated a long list of playlists, for any mood or situation someone may be in, and I have learned there are 4 essential playlists for anyone to have, even music newbies.

    Playlist One: The Sad Songs

    Although it seems like a rough place to start, it is important that you have a playlist of your sad songs. These are your crying in the car, post breakup, or just needing to feel your emotions songs. Some I have on my sad playlist are "What Are You Gonna Tell Her" by Mickey Guyton, "Ronan" by Taylor Swift, "Good Enough" by Maisie Peters.

    Playlist Two: Female Rage

    This playlist needs no introduction. These are the songs you are screaming when things are bad, when things are good, or when you just need a good scream. These songs will lift your spirits or help you feel seen through your anger. Although called “Female Rage”, these are the songs that anyone could be screaming. Some songs I’ve recently found therapeutic on this playlist are "Tolerate It" by Taylor Swift, "You Lost the Breakup" by Maisie Peters, "Best Thing I Never Had" by Beyonce.

    Playlist Three: Mixed Crowd Playlist

    These are the type of songs you can play when you are passed the aux in a car of people you barely know. A little bit of vibey, a little bit of fun throwbacks, but overall, not revealing the deepest part of your music taste. Some songs I recommend for this playlist are "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield, "That’s My Girl" by Fifth Harmony, and "Love Story" by Taylor Swift.

    Playlist Four: Windows Down

    This playlist is arguably the most important. This is your driving, windows down, summer playlist. This is the playlist that includes your singing/screaming songs, your throwbacks, and the songs that make you feel the most joy. This playlist may be targeted for summer nights but is made to help get you out of any bad mood or feel every good one. Some songs I recommend for this playlist are "The Man" by Taylor Swift, "Risk" by Gracie Abrams, and "Want U Back" by Cher Lloyd.

    No matter what your mood or circumstance, music helps you in the good times and bad. Having playlists on hang to help you process your emotions or feel them deeper is the best type of free therapy, and I hope you found some of these recommendations helpful as you begin to build your own playlists!

    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! 

     

  • Two hands with the top hand wearing a diamond ring on the ring finger.

    Being a Good Spouse and a Good Student

    Faith Castagnoli

    I’m an undergrad business student, and my husband is about to start his second year of law school. We’re newlyweds, and one of the things I’ve been thinking about is how we balance the time and effort we’re able to give to each other with the time and effort we both must put into our schoolwork.

    Both keeping good grades and being a good spouse require time, effort, and care. Staying on top of both at the same time can be hard to manage, especially when big projects are due or when finals are in full swing. Here are the things we’ve done to make sure that we’re not neglecting one in favor of the other.

    Keeping a schedule

    One of the things that’s helped the most is having a set schedule throughout the day. For example, we usually spend our mornings and parts of our evenings together, but we keep things flexible so that we don’t feel pressured to choose between getting an assignment done and spending time together. During the time that we dedicate to homework, we often work on things in the same room, which also helps us stay connected.

    Giving each other space when it is needed

    Something that’s critical to maintaining a healthy relationship with both each other and your obligations is giving each other space when it is needed. Giving each other space to unwind after a long day of classes or after finishing an assignment is important to ensure that spending time together doesn’t feel like another chore.

    Remembering to show the other that you care

    Often, it’s easy to get caught up in your own worries and forgo your obligations as a spouse. That’s why it’s so important to do little things here and there even in the busiest of times. You can make an extra portion of breakfast; you can clean up that mess you both made in the living room, or you can tackle that small stack of dishes sitting by the sink. Even just brewing enough coffee in the morning for the both of you means something. Taking even just a few minutes out of your day to show your other half that they matter to you speaks volumes.

    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! 

     

  • A silhouette of a row of beach houses at sunset.

    Dealing with Homesickness during Your First Year in College

    Anna Landrum

    Homesickness is something that most people will deal with during their college experience. Whether you are an hour or a thousand miles away from home, being homesick is normal. For a lot of young adults, college is the first time they move away from their parents and hometowns. Homesickness was something that I struggled with a lot in my first year of college. It took me a long time to adjust to my new life as an independent college student. Thankfully, as a sophomore I finally feel adjusted to college life without consistently feeling homesick. Here are a few tips and tricks to help deal with homesickness while at college.

    Make Reminders of Home

    When I am feeling homesick, I try to do things that remind me of home. I cook a family recipe or find a restaurant that makes similar meals. If there is a film that reminds you of home, have a cozy movie night. Also bringing items to college that have special meaning to you like photos of family and friends, childhood stuffed animals, or even a blanket from home can bring you comfort in moments when you miss home. Facetime your hometown friends and family when you can, and if you are busy having a simple text conversation can help you feel closer to the people you miss.

    Make Your School Your New Home

    Another way to help ease the feeling of homesickness is to put yourself out there, meet new people, and get involved on campus. Join a club. Colleges usually have an involvement fair at the start of a new semester and with many options; there will be a club that fits one of your interests! Try to meet new people. In class, chat with your classmates and introduce yourself to people. When you are in the dining hall, try to sit with a new person each time you go. This is a great way to make friends. One of my favorite ways to meet new people is by going to the gym. I love going to work-out classes and have made many friends by talking with the people also attending a workout.

    Seek Professional Help

    If you still can’t shake that homesick feeling and it becomes overwhelming, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Connect with a friend or family member and tell them about your feelings, or contact your university's counseling center. Appointments are free at most college counseling centers, and you can talk to a trained therapist.

    Acknowledge your feelings of homesickness. You are going through a major change in your life and while it is an exciting transition, it can also be scary. Be patient with yourself and know that things get better!

    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!