Students blog

I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I entered college. I was adamant about choosing a degree that would fit my interests and professional objectives. However, as the semesters passed, I realized things weren't going as well as I had hoped.

I was having trouble keeping up with the requirements of my curriculum, and my grades started to decline. Understanding the subject matter wasn't enough; I was also overburdened and, to be honest, ill-prepared for the time management techniques I would need to be successful.

I initially tried to persevere, believing things would improve if I put in more effort. However, despite my best efforts, I was unable to strike a balance. I eventually had to acknowledge that this was not the right path for me. I made the difficult decision to switch my major after giving it a lot of thought and having some painful talks with mentors and family.

Resetting the Clock on Time Management

It felt like a fresh start when I changed my major. I wasn't sure if I was making the right decision because I was entering a field with which I wasn't familiar. In addition, I had to address the behaviors that had first caused my problems, particularly my ineffective time management. I knew that improving my time management skills, staying on top of homework, and balancing my personal and academic lives were essential to succeed in this new major.

I began by establishing modest, achievable objectives for myself. I made a plan to prioritize my tasks and divided my responsibilities into smaller, more realistic chunks. When I needed assistance, I learned to ask for it from instructors, fellow students, or campus resources. I eventually discovered a rhythm that suited me.

Discovering New Passion in a New Major

What surprised me the most was how much I ended up loving my new major. I initially made the change out of necessity, but as I got deeper into the coursework, I realized that this was where I was meant to be. The subject matter fascinated me more than I expected, and I felt more engaged and motivated than ever before. It was a reminder that, sometimes, the best opportunities come from moments when life doesn’t go as planned.

Growth Through Self-Awareness and Adaptability

I learned more from this experience than just the material for a new major. I gained the ability to take charge of my academic path and adjust when things don't go as planned. I also learned how crucial it is to be truthful with myself about my advantages and disadvantages and to make the required adjustments to position myself for success. Most significantly, I came to understand that it is when we venture outside of our comfort zones that we grow.

One of the most difficult but also the best decisions I've ever made was switching my major. It forced me to become more self-aware, more disciplined, and more confident in my capacity to overcome obstacles. I’m grateful for the challenges because they led me to a field I love, proving that sometimes the path we don’t plan is the best one.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

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

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

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

Getting My Foot in the Door

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Turning Ambition into Action

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

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

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

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

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

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! 

Hello all my fellow pre-meds! If you’re applying this cycle, you know how close the applications are, and I just wanted to give some words of encouragement since I am also going through the same thing!

First things first, you must take your MCAT before June to get the most you can out of your application!

My best advice for the MCAT is do not overthink during the exam. I took a course on how to take the MCAT, and I realized that the exam is not there to trick you. Most of the questions are straightforward, and I learned that I should always go with my first pick. The more you overthink, the more likely you are to change your answer and end up getting it incorrect!

I strongly recommend taking practice exams! This is a great way to see what approach is best for you in high stress situations. On days that you do take the practice exam, make sure you set up an area that is as close as possible to the actual exam room. Plan out your meals and breaks as well! This ensures that you won’t get blindsided on test day with how fast paced and lengthy the exam is.

Okay, so you've taken your exam. What happens now?

Research various medical schools and see which ones are the best fit for you. You can go on the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) website and research different programs. Then, make sure you get your letters of recommendation. These letters are CRUCIAL for your application, since they can make or break it. Every school requires a different amount, so make sure you see how many your med school of choice wants.

Focus on your application as soon as it opens. Applications are available a month before they need to be turned in. Make sure you start early, so you don't lag then feel stressed by any deadlines. The application may take you a while to complete, but don’t feel discouraged! Take the time to perfect it and make it truly unique. Remember, you are showcasing yourself to a very competitive field, and it is easy to feel imposter syndrome when doing so. Don’t allow your self-doubt to pull you down. Believe in yourself, you got this far, right?

When you're finally done with the most stressful part, the application, relax! You've done the best you could have done up until now. Congratulate yourself, feel accomplished, you are amazing. Do not find yourself waiting around for emails regarding interviews or acceptances, live your life to its fullest. Don’t feel tied down by the burden you let go the minute you pressed submit.

To everyone applying, whether it be this cycle, or the next – good luck and congratulations!

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! 

It’s common that when students graduate from high school, they still don’t know what they want to major in when transitioning to college. Often students don’t even know where to start, but it can be an easier process if you know yourself and are confident in yourself.

The first thing to do is ask yourself three questions. The first question is what am I most interested in? You can help figure this out by list the things you enjoy learning about or being a part of. The second question is what am I most successful at? This is one of the most important things to know about yourself so you can be confident in your capabilities. You want to be able to utilize as many of your skills as possible so college can be a breeze. The last question to ask yourself is about the lifestyle you want to have after college. How much money you want to make, how much free time you want, and what work environment you would like?

When you list all these things you want mixed with the things you know about yourself, you can research professions that combine all the things you enjoy. You can also look up the different degree requirements for the occupation that stick out to you. This will ensure that you are using your skills and knowledge to do the things you want to do, so you can get the things you want out of life.

This process won’t confirm that students won’t change their major or profession, but it gives a good sense of direction of where you may want to go. This process highlights where your priorities are in life and what your realistic expectations for yourself are.

College is meant to be a fun experience so you can get the tools necessary to live your life in the way that is right and comfortable for you. It is important to know when you go, know why you are going and how you are going to achieve it.

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! 

Communication is the foundation of education; furthermore, it is the foundation of society. How many times a day do you ask a question? How about asking a friend to study? Or even something more critical like discussing a grade with a professor? As college students, we use our voices relentlessly, whether in social, academic, or professional settings. Professors communicate their well-known knowledge to eager students ready to jump-start their careers. However, it may not be that simple for every student. Many students face language barriers that create challenges both in and out of the classroom. Whether due to disabilities, language differences, or communication disorders, students who struggle to communicate miss critical opportunities. Thankfully, accessibility services help students work around these barriers and access education.

Before studying language and communication in my undergraduate courses, I thought accessibility meant extra time on exams or wheelchair ramps. However, accessibility is much broader. Communication tools like augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) devices, interpreters, and assistive technology, support students with visual, auditory, mobility, or cognitive challenges. Recognizing the privilege of effortless communication is essential.

Communication accessibility is a crucial support in education. Millions of individuals, from young children to those in higher education, face communication challenges. Despite these difficulties, accessibility services provide essential support. One of the most valuable systems is AAC. These tools range from low-tech communication boards to high-tech speech-generating devices. Communication is not limited to spoken words—it includes a variety of methods. AAC devices allow individuals to express their thoughts, engage in classrooms, and interact with peers and educators. For students with conditions such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, or aphasia, AACs provide alternative communication where traditional speech may be difficult. Implementing these devices in schools fosters inclusivity and supports education.

Beyond AAC devices, many other accessibility services assist learners. Interpreters are vital in education, helping students who speak different languages or use sign language. Learning about the Deaf community and its history has deepened my understanding of accessibility. Deaf students were once forced to use oral methods despite the challenges, limiting their educational opportunities. The focus was on assimilation rather than individual development. This issue extends beyond Deaf history to broader societal attitudes toward disabilities. Recognizing andadvocating for accessibility services in education is essential.

Additional assistive tools benefit students with physical and cognitive disabilities. Screen readers and text-to-speech software support visually impaired students, while Braille materials and tactile graphics provide crucial access to information. Adaptive keyboards assist individuals with mobility impairments, and wheelchair-accessible classrooms ensure physical accessibility. While these services exist, more advocacy is needed to raise awareness and ensure implementation. Despite progress, challenges remain in educational accessibility. A lack of awareness and understanding hinders the expansion of essential services.

Accessibility is not a want—it is a necessity. Breaking down barriers in education requires more than technology; it requires a cultural shift toward inclusion. Supportive services create environments where all students can succeed. As students, we must advocate for our peers and promote accessibility in education. By making education more inclusive, we empower students to become active learners and achievers.

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 interesting place, one day you think you have life figured out and the next you are lost. I started college as an Architecture major and now I am graduating as a Communications major. Keep reading if you want to find out how I chose my major.

General Education Classes

When my advisor said to explore classes outside of my major, I naturally decided to only pick classes within the architecture major. Unfortunately (or fortunately), my plans were disrupted when all of the classes were taken, and I was forced to follow my advisor’s suggestion. To my surprise I ended up hating my only architecture class but loving my psychology and communications classes.

Clubs

With an infinite list of clubs, finding one I liked felt like working on a highly complicated project that could alter my life forever (ok..maybe I was being a little dramatic but as an indecisive person this task was difficult). After signing up for more clubs than I can count I ended up committing to the Hall Council. We were responsible for organizing activities for our building and collaborating with the Resident Assistance. This made me aware of my passion for working in teams, managing projects, and studying people’s behaviors to better cater to them.

Self-Reflection

After joining multiple organizations and living the college life for a year, I reflected on all my experiences and made a list of all the jobs that I saw myself doing based on the skills I’ve gained and what I’ve discovered about myself. Once I had the list finalized, I ranked them and looked up what the three highest positions actually entailed.

Choice

With the list of jobs narrowed down to my top three, all I needed to do was pick. Difficult for sure, but not impossible. Time told me what I searched for, showing me the right path along the way. Looking back at my choices and comparing it to my passion guided me towards just the right major for me.

Why?

When people asked me why I wanted to be an architect, my mind went blank. The truth is there wasn’t a reason, I just picked something and moved on. Now, when someone asks why I chose Communications, my eyes spark with joy and my heart races telling endless stories that made me who I am today.

To make it simpler for you. I came up with a series of steps you can follow to make choosing a major less intimidating.

Key Steps to Find the Perfect Major

1. Take general education classes and allow yourself to explore multiple fields
2. Join clubs that spark your interest
3. Find a mentor within a club/class and ask for guidance
4. Do some self-reflection and come up with jobs that you see yourself doing in the future
5. Make a list of three to five jobs and learn more about them
6. Decide which major fits your interests and aspirations best
7. Ask yourself, why did I choose this major?

By the end of these steps, you should have an idea of what you want to major in. However, if you cannot answer the question on step seven it is time to go back to step 1. Repeat this process as many times as you need and remember that it is never too late to change your path. Remember, ultimately, we all have the same goal, to be happy. If you don't feel passionate about your career, then reconsider your options and start again. The path is there, you just have to find it. Allow yourself to wander and get lost because that's the only way to learn and grow.

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! 

As a double major student, it can be tricky to navigate what direction to pursue in internships. There are a variety of communication internships to pursue, from marketing to public relations journalism and everything in between. But when I added philosophy to my path, those opportunities changed. Instead of being able to apply to a variety of internships over the summer with a plethora of opportunities, there was almost nothing with a focus on philosophy. I was worried that I was going to graduate and somehow be left behind from my peers.

But after long discussions with my professors and mentors to figure out what I should be doing with my two degrees, I discovered that there were opportunities for me that weren’t internships, one being diversity summits in fields like philosophy across the humanities and sciences. These summits were geared towards students who came from underrepresented backgrounds, and graduate programs in the humanities, and offered things that you wouldn’t normally see in an internship.

Normally, internships offer money or credit for a specific amount of time and allow you to learn specific on-the-job skills that’ll help you in the job market, or possibly lead you to a job in that company. However, these summits pay a stipend and cover your travel to spend a week or two at a prestigious research university. Instead of working in the traditional sense, participants complete research in their field and get to meet with specific professors and researchers in the field to discover what it would be like to pursue philosophy after earning a bachelor’s degree.

It was during these programs that I discovered a community in my major that I didn’t know existed, and I also learned what was available to me postgrad. The most valuable lesson I learned at the summit was to look beyond what everyone else is doing. I was so caught up in the fact that my friends had got internships with publishing companies and large event venues that I was worried I was getting left behind. But when I looked beyond what was the normal career path, I discovered there was so much more available to me.

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! 

Whether you're about to start college, currently navigating your college years, or taking a gap year, you might be wondering about your future. Choosing a major and career path can feel overwhelming, almost like a life-or-death decision. I want to share my experience with a career path that some might consider "boring" or "difficult" and how sticking with it has shaped my journey. Many people switch majors or struggle to find their direction, so I’ll walk you through my decision-making process and offer insights into finding your own path. 

My journey began with a process of elimination. I knew I didn’t want to be a doctor or a lawyer, so I initially thought business might be a good fit, especially since both of my parents were in business careers. I was good at math, enjoyed working with numbers, and liked the idea of having objective answers. That’s why my dad suggested accounting. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to take an accounting class in high school, which set me on this path. 

At the time, I didn’t fully understand what accounting entailed. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of college, during my first internship, that I truly grasped the field. What attracted me was the stability of the job, the good salary, the necessity of interacting with people, and the teamwork involved. Despite its reputation, accounting doesn’t involve that much complex math— mostly addition and subtraction. What I loved was the system and structure that accounting 
provides, and the fact that the more you practice, the better you become. 

Initially, I wasn’t skilled at accounting, and I used to believe you needed to be naturally good at something before pursuing it. But college is a time to explore interests and align them with your goals. If you find that you’re not enjoying your chosen path, consider shadowing or interning to gain real-world insights, as classroom experiences often differ from actual work. Many accountants didn’t love their accounting classes but find satisfaction in their careers. If you decide you want to switch fields, it’s best to do so sooner rather than later, ensuring it aligns with your values and long-term goals. 

Remember, discovering your path is a process, and it’s okay to evolve along the way. The key is to stay open to learning and adapt as you go. 

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!