Students blog

College can get hectic! It’s easy to get lost in the moment and forget to take care of yourself. And since many cognitive and motor processes are interconnected, physical activity helps boost your mental health as well as your overall health.

Studies show that people experience increased cognitive function after exercising, meaning you will ultimately be helping your studies by taking a break from the books to get up and move. And no, you do not have to exert yourself at your maximum level to see these benefits!

As a senior in college who prioritizes fitting exercise into my busy schedule, I will share some ways to help get enough activity in your routine without sacrificing your grades to do it.

Outdoor Recreation: Hiking Near Campus

Hiking isn’t always the best activity in a time crunch, but it is very rewarding, and spending time away from the hustle and bustle of college is crucial for your mental health. I love to use the All Trails app to find trails near me, as it is free and easy to use. Many universities also have resources accessible online and rentable gear. This information can usually be found using Google, your university’s recreation site, or your student union. You might be surprised by how many trails are hidden near your campus!

On-Campus Commuting: Walking & Biking

Depending on how close you live to campus, taking the extra few minutes to walk to your class pays off. I always feel much more refreshed getting to class after taking non-motorized transportation, and it is easy to fit into your schedule!

Another thing I love to do is walk or bike around campus. I know my campus like the back of my hand, but I still find it beautiful every time I explore it.

Intramural Sports: Team Fitness & Fun

Not only are intramural sports great exercise, but they are also a terrific way to make new friends who share the same hobbies as you. This may seem daunting if you are new to it, but there are usually leagues of all skill levels for various sports. I had barely heard of flag football when I started college. Still, I decided to join an intramural league on a whim and absolutely loved it!

Student Yoga: Finding Zen on Campus

All you need for a yoga session is either grass or a floor, and a towel or a yoga mat (if you have one). This is a great way to get in some light exercise and de-stress. There are multiple types of yoga, and you can download apps or use YouTube to discover which types are most suited for you.

Racket Sports: Fun & Fitness on the Court

Last but certainly not least, racket sports can fit into the intramural sports category or could be something you do at your convenience. Whether you are a tennis enthusiast or have never touched a racket, it is not too difficult once you learn the basics. If you are brand new, I would recommend pickleball, but if you’ve had some experience, badminton or tennis are also great options. These types of sports are a fun way to multitask socializing with aerobic exercise.

These are some of my favorite ways to stay active, even with a busy schedule. You can try one of these suggestions or explore other options that fit your interests. Finding time for exercise isn't about sacrificing study time; it's about enhancing your overall well-being and academic performance. The next time you’re fatigued from studying, remember that breaks for physical activity can be more beneficial than pushing through the exhaustion.

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! 

Starting college is an exciting time. New classes, new friends, new clubs, and a world of freedom and opportunities all hitting at once. It’s fresh and fun, but it can also feel overwhelming, like you’re drowning in choices.

My advice? Say yes. Yes to new experiences. Yes to clubs, sports, or student organizations. Yes to coffee with a professor or chatting with someone in your dorm hallway.

College is the time to explore, and the more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Saying yes doesn’t mean doing everything or stretching yourself too thin—it means being open to opportunities that could change your life.

Showing Up at My Sorority

I learned this firsthand when I joined my sorority. At first, it felt like too much. So many new faces, so many events, so many rules and social constructs I didn’t understand. Honestly, I considered backing out. But I kept showing up, saying yes to as many activities as I could manage.

Slowly, I found my people. I met a group of girls who now, three years later, are some of my best friends. That one decision to keep showing up, even when it was uncomfortable, completely shaped my college experience.

Opening New Doors on Campus

Saying yes opens doors. Joining clubs or attending events isn’t just about padding your resume. These experiences are about discovering new passions, building friendships, networking, and gaining exposure you can’t get anywhere else.

Even classes or workshops that seem intimidating at first can teach you resilience, creativity, and confidence. Each yes is a step toward growth, and even small ones can lead to unexpectedly meaningful experiences.

Balance to Avoid Burnout

Of course, saying yes doesn’t mean sacrificing your mental health. College can be intense, and it’s okay to take breaks. Listen to your body and mind while prioritizing what really matters. Rest, recharge, and return to opportunities with energy.

Balance is key! You can say yes to life without burning out. The goal is engagement, not exhaustion.

Becoming a “Yes Man”

Being a “Yes Man” in college is really about mindset. It’s about curiosity, courage, and being willing to step outside your comfort zone. Don’t let fear or self-doubt stop you from exploring the possibilities in front of you.

Take that chance to join a club, attend an event, or talk to someone new. Those moments often become the stories, friendships, and memories you’ll treasure for years.

College is what you make of it. By saying yes, you’ll create a richer, fuller, more meaningful college experience. Don’t wait for opportunities to find you; seek them out.

Engage, explore, and embrace the adventure. In the end, you’ll look back not just at grades or a transcript but at the friendships, experiences, and stories that shaped who you are.

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! 

Winners and losers both set goals. The difference between the winner (who achieves their goal) and the loser (who never achieves their goal) is their habits.

The Habit is the Goal

Let’s be honest: college (and life) often feels like juggling fire while riding a unicycle. With classes, commitments, and the temptation of “just one more episode,” it’s easy to rely on bursts of motivation. But motivation is like campus Wi-Fi — it works great when you have it but disappears the moment you need it most. That’s why habits are the true change-makers.

Many people treat habits as seasonal tools — something you do just to hit a temporary goal. But this is a limited mindset. Instead, if you make the habit itself the goal, the results will naturally follow. In fact, when you make a habit part of your identity (“I am a runner” instead of “I want to run a 5K”), the goal becomes your reality almost effortlessly.

How to Build a Habit

If you want to hear from a habits expert instead of a college student who still procrastinates on homework, I highly recommend the book Atomic Habits by James Clear. Clear breaks down the science very “clearly” (pun intended). He emphasizes that building habits isn’t about massive overhauls, but small, consistent wins that compound like interest.

He outlines four key steps to building a habit:

1. Create a cue. Something triggers you to act. Walk into the kitchen? You’re suddenly opening the fridge. Your environment often cues your behavior.

2. Lower the activation energy. Make the habit easy to start. If your guitar is stored in the attic, odds are you’ll never play it. But if it’s on a stand next to your desk, picking it up becomes effortless. Small changes in your setup can significantly lower the barrier to action.

3. Practice the desired response. This step is like the first day at the gym: everything feels heavy, awkward, and maybe even a little embarrassing. But with repetition, what once seemed impossible becomes second nature. Think about learning to ride a bike: the first tries are wobbly, but soon you’re cruising without thinking. That’s your brain engraving a new neural groove.

4. Make it enjoyable. If the habit feels rewarding, your brain will want to repeat it. Find ways to make it fun, reward yourself, or pair it with something you already enjoy.

The Genius of Habit Stacking

One of my favorite techniques from the book is habit stacking — linking a new habit to an existing one. It’s like sneaking vegetables into your mac and cheese. You don’t notice the effort as much, but the benefits add up.

Personally, I’ve found success by stacking habits in simple but powerful ways:

• While driving, I practice sermons or presentations. My car becomes a mobile rehearsal hall.
• In the shower, I listen to podcasts or recordings — yes, multitasking cleanliness and personal growth.
• When I eat, I often read a book. It nourishes both my body and my mind.

These habit stacks have multiplied my growth without feeling like extra work.

Turn Knowledge Into Power

At the end of the day, knowledge alone isn’t power — the application of knowledge is power. You already know habits matter. Now it’s time to put them into practice.

Start small. Stack wisely. Lower the barriers. Reward yourself. Before long, you’ll realize your habits aren’t chores — they’re the superpowers fueling your success.

So here’s the challenge: don’t just read this. Go apply it. You already have the knowledge — now it’s time to unlock your power.

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! 

Pride and Identity

When people think about college, they often imagine long nights studying, game days, and new friendships. But at Southern University and A&M College, there’s something even deeper that shapes our experience: our traditions.

From Pretty Wednesdays to Red Bean Mondays and the excitement of Homecoming, these customs are the heartbeat of our campus. They bring students, alumni, and faculty together, creating a strong sense of community and pride. In this blog, I’ll share more about these beloved traditions and why they’re such an important part of Southern’s identity.

Red Bean Mondays

Red Bean Mondays are a delicious tradition rooted in Southern and Louisiana culture. In many households across the region, red beans and rice are served on Mondays, and Southern University keeps that tradition alive on campus.

It’s not just about the food. It’s about the feeling. Sharing a familiar meal brings students, faculty, and staff together in a way that feels like home. Whether you’re grabbing a plate after class or sitting down with friends, Red Bean Monday offers comfort, community, and a taste of tradition to start the week off right.

Pretty Wednesdays

Every other Wednesday at Southern University isn’t just a regular day. It’s Pretty Wednesday. On these special days, students dress to impress, music fills the yard, and the campus comes alive with energy. It’s a time to celebrate self-expression, connect with classmates, and enjoy the vibrant culture that makes Southern unique.

From stylish outfits to spontaneous dance battles and student vendors, Pretty Wednesday is more than a social gathering; it’s a tradition that brings us all together. It adds excitement to the week and gives us a chance to celebrate who we are: confident, creative, and connected.

Homecoming Week

Homecoming at Southern is more than just a football game. It’s a weeklong celebration of pride, legacy, and unity. Alumni return from across the country, student organizations host exciting events, and the campus fills with energy and school spirit.

From the parade to the step shows, tailgates, concerts, and the big game, Homecoming is a time when Jaguars past and present come together to celebrate our shared history. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the year and a true example of what it means to be part of the Southern family.

Southern Traditions

Campus traditions like Pretty Wednesdays, Red Bean Mondays, and Homecoming aren’t just campus events. They’re part of what makes Southern University feel like home.

Traditions connect us to those who came before us while creating memories that will last a lifetime. These experiences strengthen our sense of community and remind us why we’re proud to be Jaguars.

As we continue to celebrate and share these traditions, we keep them alive for future generations. And that’s what makes Southern not just a college, but a family.

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 the school year progresses, many college students find themselves toiling away at a computer and spending most of the week studying. But every now and then, it’s important to step away from the grind and just be a regular person!

Everyone needs rest, especially during the stressful season of finals. Taking a break helps you be more productive afterwards and restores some of your focus for the rest of the week.

So, how can you achieve this balance? Here are a few ideas to help you de-stress after a long day of work:

Origami as a Reward

Origami is a Japanese art form that involves creating 3D figures by folding a piece of paper. All you need is a couple of sheets of paper and a design you want to attempt. This makes the craft both affordable and easy to do anywhere.

Need some ideas on what to fold? Beginners often start with lucky stars, cranes, or flowers. There are plenty of online resources to guide you through each step. Try folding a heart for yourself every time you complete a set of problems as a reward for your hard work.

"Claying" Around with Friends

Everyone deserves a break! Bring a small pack of clay to your next group study session or invite a friend to join you for some amateur sculpting. Sculpt silly shapes or new decor and share a laugh over your creations.

Studying for long periods can lead to burnout. Working with something tactile like clay engages new areas of your brain, giving your mind a chance to relax and regroup before the next study session.

Deep Art Sessions

Sometimes, short breaks just don’t cut it. After hours of work, mental fatigue can feel inescapable. In moments like these, it’s essential to step away from the work completely.

Art is a wonderful outlet for expressing emotions and promoting relaxation. Use an artistic activity as a way to engage in a longer, deeper break. Draw, paint, journal, or do any of the activities above; indulge in whatever creative activity helps you forget your to-do list for a while.

Get Creative with Assignments

College is all about working hard to build a better future, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your artistic side. If it’s professor-approved, you can also add artistic elements to your final projects. Use tools like Canva or PowerPoint for presentations, or write something creative with an artistic summary instead of an essay.

For those in technical fields, decorating and organizing your notes can be a fun way to visually engage with complex information. Adding a bit of personality to your work is also a visual reminder that you’re creating something for yourself with your studies.

Take a Break and Have Fun!

Ultimately, how you choose to de-stress is up to you. While studies have shown that art can reduce stress, the best method is always the one that works for you.

And if crafts aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to unwind. Watching a movie, cooking a delicious meal, or exercising are all great alternatives.

The most important thing is to be intentional about taking breaks to focus on something you enjoy. Your grades, your focus, and your well-being will thank you for 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! 

Homecoming at Tuskegee University

This year marks my third homecoming at Tuskegee University, and let me tell you, homecoming at THEE HBCU is an experience like no other. Every year, the atmosphere is electric—full of love, pride, and a deep sense of community.

It’s a time when alumni of all ages come together to celebrate the rich history and promising future of our beloved school. If you’ve ever been, you know we do it big.

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to make the most of this special time. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up to ensure your homecoming experience is fun, safe, and rewarding.

1. Attend Events & Network

One of the best things about homecoming is the variety of events—from tailgates and step shows to alumni mixers and panel discussions. This is your opportunity to meet new people, build new friendships, and reconnect with old ones. As an HBCU student, you’re part of an incredible network, and homecoming is the perfect time to tap into it.

For students, homecoming offers a golden opportunity to network with alumni working in fields you’re interested in. I’ve had the chance to speak with alumni in industries like finance and accounting, and it’s been inspiring to hear about their career journeys and get advice on navigating life after graduation. The connections you make here could lead to internships, job opportunities, or even long-term mentorships.

2. Plan Ahead

With so many activities packed into a short amount of time, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and accidentally miss an event you wanted to attend. To avoid missing out, plan which events you’ll attend ahead of time.

Prioritize the activities that align with your interests and career goals. Whether it’s a meet-and-greet with alumni or a career panel, be strategic with your time to make the most of your homecoming experience.

3. Prioritize Safety

As much as we want to have fun, safety should always be our top priority. When navigating large crowds, especially at night, make sure to stay with a group. Keep your phone charged, know where the emergency exits are, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Whether it’s your first homecoming or you’re a seasoned attendee, prioritizing your safety ensures you can fully enjoy everything the event has to offer.

4. Be Yourself

Homecoming is all about authenticity and being yourself. Embrace the tradition, the culture, and the energy, but don’t feel pressured to be someone you’re not. When you're true to yourself, it’s easier to connect with others, and you’ll naturally gravitate toward the events and people that align with your interests.

5. Have Fun!

Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Homecoming at Tuskegee University is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our legacy and our future. Enjoy the moments, create lasting memories, and take in the sights and sounds of this amazing experience.

Every school has their own homecoming celebrations and traditions. Make your next homecoming 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! 

When in college, it may seem impossible to save money. There are countless things you’ll want to spend your cash on, whether it’s a football game, a club membership, or shopping for the next event. On top of that, you still have to account for what you need for both school and life.

Managing all of this can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time living away from home. That’s why it’s so important to be intentional and find a healthy balance in everything from your schedule to your spending.

Get Started: Earning an Income

To manage money effectively, you have to first have some money to work with. Whether it comes from an allowance, a scholarship, or a part-time job, having a reliable source of income is essential.

The more you can earn, the more you can save. If you keep your savings in an account that earns interest, this money will grow alongside you through college. Figuring out how much you make each month is the critical first step to establishing good spending and saving habits.

Get Organized: Managing a Budget

Once you know your monthly income, the next step is to allocate your money wisely. Start by setting aside funds for necessities like food and rent. Then, with the remaining balance, create a realistic budget for your wants and savings.

For instance, if you have $500 left after covering your essential expenses, decide how much you want to save. If you choose to save $200, you’ll have $300 left to cover all other expenses. The key takeaway is to save before you spend.

Save Money: Spend Thoughtfully

It might be difficult to save the same amount every month, because college is full of unique experiences that entice with the promise of memories (and the price of mementos). However, by prioritizing essentials first, then savings, and finally discretionary spending, you can manage your money more effectively and avoid unnecessary debt.

At the end of the day, we’re still young adults balancing the excitement and responsibility of adulthood. While it’s important to enjoy college life, the most critical aspect of managing money is to plan and prepare for the future.

Yes, having fun is important, but at the end of the day, a lot of the fun we experience in college is fleeting. Make sure you stay focused on long-term growth without getting (too) distracted by short-term rewards.

Invest: In Yourself

As you progress through school, challenge yourself to save as much as possible. The earlier you develop this habit, the more you’ll earn in interest.

Ultimately, the goal of pursuing a degree is to transition into a successful, self-sufficient adult. Use this time to invest in yourself in every way: academically, professionally, personally, and financially. It will pay off (literally) in the long run.

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 commuter student, I expected college to be all about academics with little to no social life. Living off campus, without a dorm community, and then driving home after my last class made it challenging to feel connected.

While others stayed for club meetings or late-night events, I often felt like an outsider. During my first semester, I wondered if I’d ever find a group of friends or feel a sense of belonging on campus.

However, things changed once I decided to be more intentional about getting involved, even though I wasn’t living on campus.

Attend Office Hours

One of the first things I did was start attending office hours, not just to seek help, but also to build relationships with my professors. Those small conversations grew into mentorships and even led to opportunities to participate in department events.

Form a Study Group

I also made a point to talk to classmates before and after lectures. Eventually, I formed a study group with a few peers, and we began meeting weekly at a nearby café. That group became my first real college community of the year.

Participate in Campus Events

I also got involved in campus organizations that accommodated commuter schedules, such as a leadership program that met during lunch hours. This offered me a chance to contribute, build skills, and make friends without needing to stay on campus late. I started attending daytime events, study sessions, and workshops, even though it felt a little awkward at first.

In Good Company

What surprised me most was discovering how many students were in the same situation. Other commuters, part-time students, and those working jobs also struggled to find time to connect. Once I started reaching out, I found that I wasn’t alone.

Being a commuter doesn’t mean missing out on the college experience; it just requires a different approach. Show up when you can. Start conversations. Join one activity. Small steps can lead to big connections. Now, I feel more connected to my campus than I ever thought possible.

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 Personal in the Political

As a political science student, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the foundations of our government and the principles that make America what it is today. It’s easy to get caught up in theoretical discussions about democracy, freedom, and citizenship—abstract ideas we study in textbooks and debate in classrooms.

However, my understanding has evolved as I’ve learned more about our history and political system. I’ve come to realize that these concepts aren’t just ideas on a page; they’re the lived experiences of people who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we now enjoy.

During my time in Washington, D.C., I couldn’t help but think of my grandfather’s service and what it has meant for my family and our country. I wrote the following letter to him during one of these reflective sessions. It was a moment where I found my work, studies, and family history combining into a deeper understanding.

Dear Grandpa: A Letter from the Capitol

As I sit here in the Library of Congress, looking out at the United States Capitol, I’m reminded of the symbolism that this place holds. Perched atop the Capitol dome is a 20-foot, 15,000-pound statue—the Statue of Freedom. This statue represents the triumph of freedom, both in times of peace and war. It’s a powerful symbol of our nation’s values, standing tall above Washington, D.C., and visible from many parts of the city.

During my time working here, I’ve learned about the statue’s significance. Tour guides often point out that it faces east, symbolizing the welcoming of new opportunities and the protection of the freedoms we hold dear. But, while the statue is a beautiful reminder of our nation’s ideals, it’s not the statue itself that upholds these values. It’s the people who fought for those ideals—people like you, Grandpa.

When I look at that statue, I’m reminded of you and your service. It makes me think of the sacrifices you made and how you fought not just for a statue, but for a way of life that we all cherish. The Statue of Freedom may stand tall in the Capitol, but it is your bravery, your sacrifice, and your love for this country that truly embody freedom.

As we approach Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve done for this country. I think about how you left your family and your life behind to serve and protect others. You risked everything so that others wouldn’t have to. Every time I pass the Capitol, I think of you and the legacy you’ve created—not just for our family, but for our nation.

I don’t say it enough, but I am deeply thankful for your service, Grandpa. I am proud to have you as my grandfather, and I miss you more than words can express. I can’t wait for the day we’re at your kitchen table again, debating politics and enjoying frozen Oreos together.

Take care, Grandpa. I love you.

– Riley Mai Maddox

Stories Complement Our Studies

It’s easy to get caught up in definitions, theories, and analysis while studying history and politics in college. But we all have a story to tell about our experiences in this country, and every experience is part of a shared history.

Sharing our stories and honoring our experiences helps turn our knowledge into insight. As valuable as textbooks are, we are the source of how those theories translate into real life.

Happy Veterans Day to all, and thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your story.

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!