Students blog

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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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Many college students find it difficult to leave the familiarity and comfort of their room at home for a blank slate at college. Your room at home feels safe and uniquely yours. In contrast, college accommodations often seem cold, bare, and impersonal.

However, creating a space you love is essential for staying positive and thriving in your new environment. By adding personal touches and customizing your space, you can make college life much more comfortable.

Bring things from home to combat homesickness

This is one of the easiest ways to make your space feel cozier and instantly more like home. When you move away for college, bring special items that remind you of home to spruce up your new place. This could include beloved objects like a favorite coffee mug, a signed poster, or an accent rug. Surrounding yourself with familiar items can help you feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment.

Decorate with pictures and mementos for instant comfort

Gather your favorite pictures and photos and print them out at a local pharmacy or photo center. Then, display them in attractive frames or arrange them in a collage on your wall. Seeing familiar faces (whether they be family, friends, or pets) is always a wonderful mood booster and an instant source of comfort.

Soften the lighting to brighten your mood

Good lighting can completely transform a space. Adding a decorative lamp or a sweet-smelling candle can give a room an entirely new feel. A quick solution for a new dorm or apartment is a string of battery-powered fairy lights, which are easy to hang and turn on and off.

Replacing harsh overhead lighting with softer, ambient options can instantly make your room feel cozier and more relaxing. You’ll notice the difference right away.

Get crafty to create custom decor

Engaging in a little arts and crafts can be a fun way to create a decorative piece that you’re proud of! Do this alone for some relaxation and stress relief or with friends for a fun bonding activity.

Some project ideas include creating a felt pennant with your school name, knitting a cozy throw, or making a DIY picture frame. If crafting isn’t your strong suit (like me!), opt for an easier project. For example, you can press flowers or colorful leaves and display them as unique wall decorations or drink coasters.

Prioritize décor to ease your college transition

Transforming your new space into one that’s truly yours is one of the best things you can do for yourself during the college transition. Whether you bring a favorite blanket from home, create a photo collage, or add cozy lights, each personal touch makes a big difference.

It’s about more than just making your room look good. It’s about creating a personal sanctuary where you can relax, recharge, and become accustomed to college life.

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

There’s plenty of advice on how to secure and succeed in an internship, but much of it can be too vague to act on. After completing four internships, I’ve developed practical methods to achieve the goals outlined in countless “how-to-be-great-at-interning” articles. Here are my three best tips to stand out as an intern.

1. Ask the Right Questions

To appear engaged, ask questions; to truly impress as an intern, ask the right questions. If you ask about every detail mentioned in a meeting or pose overly basic questions, coworkers may quickly lose patience. Instead, handle simple questions on your own and reserve asking others about topics that demonstrate your curiosity and expertise.

For example, if your company uses a lot of acronyms, there might be a glossary or "cheat sheet" available. Or, if you don’t understand something at work, try a quick Google search first. That way, you can reserve your coworkers’ time for more in-depth and thoughtful questions.

2. Network with Purpose

Networking is crucial for career growth, but it’s not about meeting everyone in the company. Instead, focus on building intentional connections.

In my experience, this means reaching out to key individuals with a specific reason to connect. Senior managers and executives are more likely to meet with you if you have a clear purpose beyond a casual coffee chat.

For example, I discovered that our Product Development Manager was also an AI ambassador for the company. I reached out to share that I was working on an AI project and wanted his insights. This gave our conversation focus and allowed me to showcase my approach to projects and the value I brought to my team.

3. Apply Feedback

Being open to feedback is essential but applying that feedback is even more important. Everyone makes mistakes, so what will set you apart is showing that you leverage yours as opportunities for growth.

Jobs are collaborative and applying feedback can signal a deeper meaning to your team and manager. It shows that you care how your work impacts others and demonstrates your commitment to both the team and the company.

Final Thoughts

An internship can be more than a temporary job; it can serve as an extended interview for a career position. Moving beyond generic advice can be what sets you apart.

It’s not just about asking questions but asking the right ones: ones that demonstrate competence and awareness. It’s not about meeting everyone in the office but making meaningful connections while you’re there. And it’s not just about hearing feedback but showing you can learn and improve by applying it.

By focusing on these intentional strategies, you transform from just another intern into a valuable team member. That’s how you turn a few months of work into a career-launching opportunity.

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